Essential Functions

The Surgical First Assistant should not simultaneously function in the scrub role when serving as a First Assistant. 

 Aseptic technique

· Follows the appropriate technique as defined by AORN guidelines for the hand scrub

· Initiates corrective action when a break in technique occurs

· Inspects/maintains sterility of supplies/trays

· Protects integrity of the sterile field

Maintenance of surgical site

· Provides correct sponging, direct pressure and clamping

· Operates suction equipment

· Provides cautery as directed, demonstrating correct use to avoid destruction of tissue

· Responds to the needs and anticipates the needs of the surgeon

· Adheres to the standards of care as outlined by the American Operation Nurses Association

Preparation of surgical field

· Assists in gathering all supplies needed for the procedure

· Assists in transferring the patient to the OR table and verifies identity of the patient

· Positions patient safely on the table

· Performs the proper surgical scrub on the correct operative site

· Drapes for maximum exposure to the operative site

Retracting

· Retracts as directed by the physician

· Consistently retracts the tissues to maintain adequate exposure while maintaining the safety of the patient

Closure of incision

· Identifies the correct suturing method for the area involved

· Demonstrates competency in the correct method of suturing/knot tying for the various types of tissue

· Coordinates suturing move with the surgeon and cuts sutures appropriately

· Utilizes stapling devices appropriately

Secures drainage devices

Other surgical duties may include: 

· assist with intraoperative positions 

· injection of local anesthesia 

· insertion of trocars 

· preparation of grafts 

· securing drains 

· application of casts 

· facilitating patient rounds

· changing of dressings 

· and other duties as assigned by the supervising physician

Medical Office Duties:

· Summons and prepares patient for office visit.

· Assists the physician with medical office procedure.

· Administers medication, including injections; documents medication given or prescribed by ordering physicians as required by specialty.

· Adheres to nursing policy and procedure when documenting information in patient’s medical record.

· Maintains the integrity of the office

· Performs additional duties specific to the specialty, and/or acquires additional license or credentials.

· Accepts responsibility for reading and referencing new policies and procedures and Nursing Update newsletters and assumes responsibility for maintaining current certification in CPR.

Supervisory Responsibility

None

Work Environment & Physical Demands
Ability to walk or stand for up to 80% of work time, and to push /pull equipment weighing up to approximately 40 pounds for up to 20% of work tune.

Exposures to blood and body fluids, and all areas of patient care. Also exposed to
cool temperatures, hazardous equipment, fumes /odors and noise. Physical/Mental – Standing in one place for prolonged periods of time.

Manual Dexterity – Handling of surgical instruments

 

Travel
No travel is expected for this position except to satellite offices.