RN First Assistant

About the role

The R.N.F.A. in the Operating Room assists the surgeon and provides aid in exposure, hemostasis and other technical functions during surgery. Provides appropriate care pre and post-op under the direction of the surgeon.

Responsibilities

• Accountable for the delivery of quality patient care; consults with surgeon prior to surgery concerning individualized patient needs.
• Participates as a team member in the implementation of the patient's plan; confirms patient's identity and proper consent for surgery, visualizes site marking and checks for correct laterality prior to surgery.
• Assists with the preparation of equipment and supplies required for intra operative use; plans and coordinates supplies and equipment for intra operative use.
• Demonstrates responsibility to the department and a commitment to personal career growth.
• Contributes to the productivity and efficient operation of the department; uses time efficiently in regard to overtime and completes assignments with minimal errors and within the shift.
• Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served (birth to adulthood), including knowledge of growth and development principles and ability to assess patient data and identify age-specific needs.
• Responsible for promoting patient quality service excellence standards; acts as patient advocate and assures that the patient's Bill of Rights is followed.
• Knowledgeable, accountable, and fiscally responsible; continually seeks ways to sustain and improve one's skills.
• Flexible and open-minded; listens with an open mind to others' opinions in the spirit of finding and following the best ideas.
• Treats the people we serve as guests; welcomes patients, visitors and staff warmly, makes eye contact and smiles, introduces self by name and position, addresses people by name.
• Listens to patients, visitors and staff and acts promptly to address concerns; uses active listening techniques and acts decisively to resolve problems.
• Respects the privacy and confidentiality of patients, visitors and staff; treats all patient-related discussions with discretion, eliminates gossip, does not discuss patient or hospital business in public areas.
• Presents a professional image; wears name badge visibly, adheres to department dress code, maintains appropriate appearance.
• Answers the telephone professionally; follows department guidelines, introduces self and department, offers assistance, uses a pleasant tone.
• Maintains a clean and safe environment; keeps work area safe and clean, keeps hallways clear.
• Anticipates what services and information people need and takes action to provide it; watches for clues that patients or visitors require assistance, offers help, escorts them to their destination if necessary, encourages questions.
• Engages in open, honest, and clear coaching discussions that build commitment through straightforward feedback, two-way dialogue, and emphasis on problem-solving.

Qualifications

• R.N. Licensure in Connecticut required.
• Knowledge in tissue handling technique, knot-tying hemostasis techniques and appropriate use of instruments.
• BLS required.

Physical demands

May be exposed to infectious diseases, hazardous waste, radiation. Standing/walking at least half the day and occasionally working in awkward positions while holding retractors when assisting and supporting extremities. Helping lift heavy objects ten (10) to twenty (20) pounds and assisting with moving of patients ranging from one hundred (100) to three hundred (400) pounds. Moderate stress related to patient care.