Surgical Technician

DESCRIPTION OF POSITION:

• Provides technical care for patients within assigned unit of hospital in support of medical care as directed by medical staff and pursuant to objectives and policies of the hospital, the Surgical Technician is responsible for delegated care for all patients assigned to him/her by the RN.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Utilizes principles of aseptic technique and maintains sterile conscience.
• Accurately gathers appropriate instruments and supplies for all assigned cases.
• Utilizes universal precautions including protective eye-wear.
• Performs surgical counts accurately (when applicable).
• Handles and labels specimens according to policy.
• Communicates clearly and appropriately with other surgical team members (circulator/physician)
• Actively participates in Universal Protocol practices as appropriate.
• Following surgical procedure, readies surgical suite and properly disposes of instruments.
• Is knowledgeable of procedures and prepares for potential emergencies by assuring equipment and instrumentation is available
• Utilizes unit specific equipment safely and appropriately (Autoclave, microscopes, etc.)
• Incorporates healthy workforce in daily practice.
• Call is required for this position.
• Sets up the operating room prior to surgery.
• Checks surgical machines and equipment
• Passes instruments to surgeons during surgery
• Assist with moving the patient to the operating room and position them on the operating table.
• After the operation is complete, helps clean the operating room, ensures re-sterilizing of all equipment, surfaces, and materials used during the procedure.

The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE

• High School graduate or GED. Sterile technique training preferred.
• Basic computer skills.
• Entry level position in which the applicant will be trained.
• Ability to read, write and speak intelligible English; Ability to communicate with employees, vendors, and other medical personnel.
• Capable of clear and succinct verbal and written communications; Possess a high level of patience and tenacity; Capable of rapid problem identification and resolution.
• Requires emotional stability and maturity; Must be adaptable to change, be decisive, and demonstrate foresight; Exhibits organizational and leadership ability.

Physical Demands/Work Environment

• Moderate amount of lifting and positioning of patients and equipment.
• Ability to walk frequently and stand or sit for prolonged periods of time. 
• Ability to see objects closely and hear normal sounds with some background noises.    
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.