Surgical Technologist II

About the Role

Functions as a team member under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. Utilizes Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses (AORN) Perioperative Standards, Association of Surgical Technologist Recommended Standards of Practice, and perioperative policies and procedures in performing duties related to care of the patient during surgical intervention. Scrubs consistently in complex cases independently. Supports core values and division beliefs during interactions with patients, visitors, and colleagues.

Qualifications

Education:

• Associates hired prior to 9/1/13: Graduate of an approved Surgical Technologist program or equivalent work experience.
• Associates hired after 9/1/13: Minimum of Associate Degree in Surgical Technology or current Certified Association of Surgical Technologist.
• Associate Degree in Surgical Technology preferred.

Licensure / Certification:

• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Associates hired prior to 9/1/13: Association of Surgical Technologist Certification preferred.
• Associates hired/transferred after 9/1/13: Association of Surgical Technologist Certification preferred.

Skills / Aptitudes:

• Must successfully complete department orientation/competency review for complex cases.
• Interpersonal skills necessary to interact effectively with patients, families, physicians, and collaborate within a team.
• Ability to work independently in complex cases.
• Excellent customer service orientation.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years working experience as a Surgical Technologist, demonstrating the ability to develop and improve skills in assisting surgeons and organizing work efficiently.

Responsibilities

• Applies the principles of asepsis to provide optimum patient care and maintains the highest standard of sterile technique.
• Participates in general cleaning, stocking, and sterilization of instruments and supplies in the OR, maintaining a clean and safe environment.
• Assists in setting up the OR with supplies, instruments, and equipment, arranging them for efficient use during procedures.
• Differentiates sterilization methods for special equipment and instruments required for specific surgical procedures.
• Anticipates future supply and instrument needs to reduce room turnover between cases.
• Assists with moving and positioning patients pre-op, intra-op, and post-operatively.
• Scrubs on a variety of procedures, with at least 50% of work time assigned to at least two of the following:
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm and/or Aortic Bi-femoral Bypass Grafts
  • Total Joint Replacement and repair
  • Craniotomy / fusions
  • Open-Heart Surgery including CABG and Valve Replacement
• Anticipates the needs of the surgeon when passing instruments, sponges, sutures, etc., during procedures.
• Maintains an accurate count of sponges, needles, and instruments, jointly responsible with the RN circulator for ensuring counts are complete.
• Identifies and hands specimens to the circulating RN as directed by the surgeon.
• Participates in the orientation and education of operating room staff, including technologists and students.
• Performs duties consistent with safe patient care, respecting confidentiality, privacy, dignity, and safety.
• Contributes to unit projects and assists in the trial and evaluation of new surgical products and procedures.
• Participates in continuing education and in-service meetings, maintaining a current record of professional development.
• Demonstrates commitment to organizational values and adheres to applicable laws, regulations, and policies.
• Ensures appropriate charges are entered for services provided, correcting as needed per charge capture policy.
• Actively participates in revenue management education and communication.
• Assists with tracking and monitoring of equipment assigned to the unit.
• Proficient with electronic health records for documentation, assessment, and care management.

Working Conditions

• Position may require frequent lifting and carrying of patients/equipment/other, not to exceed 51 pounds (associates will not lift items/patients exceeding 35 pounds from the floor).
• Performed in the surgical suite and related areas, with potential exposure to communicable diseases and hazardous substances.
• Working weekends, holidays, and rotating shifts may be necessary to meet staffing needs.