Surgical Technologist - Certified - Central Processing - FT / Evenings

McLeod Health is a locally owned and managed, not-for-profit organization with over 900 medical staff and 2,900 licensed nurses. Founded in 1906, the system includes seven hospitals, three health and fitness centers, a sports medicine and outpatient rehabilitation center, and hospice and home health services across an 18-county service area.

About the role

The Certified Surgical Technologist utilizes knowledge of surgical instrumentation, equipment, procedures, sterile technique, and asepsis to maintain the operating room environment and assist the surgeon in meeting patient needs during surgical procedures or deliveries. At times, the CST also works under the direct supervision of a staff nurse to assist in meeting patients’ basic needs, including comfort, hygiene, and nutrition, by obtaining data for assessment and supporting department operations.

Responsibilities

• Work under the supervision of a surgeon to facilitate safe and effective conduct of invasive and non-invasive surgical procedures, ensuring a safe operating room environment, proper equipment function, and conditions that maximize patient safety.
• Ensure availability and preparedness of OR rooms, supplies, and equipment for efficient perioperative processes.
• Follow procedures for verification of medical implants.
• Prepare sterile instruments, sutures, and equipment necessary for surgical procedures, demonstrating a working knowledge of each device.
• Verify sterilization methods (Steam/Sterrad), inspect package integrity, check chemical indicators, and examine instrument tray filters.
• Assist with patient positioning and prepping according to department and hospital standards.
• Perform initial and additional instrument, sharps, and sponge counts with the circulator.
• Assist with draping the patient and establishing the sterile field.
• Participate in surgical site and patient verification during the time-out procedure.
• Maintain the sterile field to ensure patient and employee safety by adhering to the highest standards of sterile technique.
• Anticipate the needs of the surgeon during operative procedures.
• Follow medication management procedures on the surgical field, including handling and labeling drugs and solutions under supervision.
• Demonstrate competence in the preparation and care of specimens; accurately handle and pass off specimens as appropriate.
• Assist in lifting, turning, positioning, and preparing patients for surgical procedures using proper body mechanics.
• Maintain a clean and safe environment, including point-of-use cleaning and preparation of instruments for decontamination and sterilization.
• Assist with terminal cleaning of the OR between procedures, restock supplies, and perform periodic cleaning of storage areas and equipment.
• Use standard precautions and appropriate personal protective equipment when handling hazardous substances, including blood and body fluids.
• Respond promptly to call team responsibilities, reporting to work within 30 minutes when called in.
• Participate in one in-service presentation yearly.
• Perform all assigned duties with flexibility, punctuality, and dependability.

Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology Program.
• Certification through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
• Certified as a Surgical Technologist in South Carolina.
• 0 to less than 1 year of related work experience (0 to 3 years acceptable).
• Regular, punctual, and dependable attendance.
• Willingness to learn in a surgical environment.