Certified Surgical Technologist

Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance is the largest orthopaedic surgery group in Tennessee. TOA concentrates on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders and injuries of the musculoskeletal system which allow our patients to live their best life. Ninety plus years later we are advancing the practice of orthopaedic surgery throughout the state.

There are a number of reasons why TOA is an employer of choice; here are a few of them:

• Stability- TOA has been in Middle Tennessee since 1926 and has expanded to over 20+ locations across the state!
• Impact- TOA’s team members use our careers – whether in our clinics or our business office – to make a positive difference in the community by building relationships and helping patients live their best life.
• Work Environment- The TOA team focuses on fostering an excellent working environment; one of positivity, collaboration, job satisfaction, and engagement.
• Total Rewards- TOA offers a comprehensive suite of benefits, including Medical, Dental, Paid Time Off, and more. Our 401(k) plan provides a company match, safe harbor match and profit-sharing match to go along with your contributions.

The trained Certified Surgical Technologist shall serve as a member of the surgical team under the direction of a registered nurse, assist in operative procedures and assist in preparation of materials and supplies for procedures. The technician shall function in his/her level of proficiency so deemed by the Clinical Manager.

1. Responsible for performing conscientiously and accurately all duties assigned by the Clinical Manager.
2. Is conscious of the patient as an individual and behaves with courtesy, kindness and discretion.
3. Conforms to all rules and regulations governing the operating room.
4. Upholds and conforms to all Center and personnel policies.
5. Participates in staff development programs to improve skills and patient care.
6. Assists in maintaining and processing supplies and instruments required in the operating room.
7. Assists in helping the surgeon accomplish a plan of care for the patient.

A. Perform delegated duties as a “scrubbed” member of the nursing team which includes:

1.  preparing the room, supplies and equipment for the patient.
2.  assisting in preparing the pre-operative and draping the patient according to established procedure to provide an ample sterile field.
3.  carrying out activities required during the operation pertaining to handling of instruments, sponges, sutures, catheters, drains, and dressings in such a manner as to ensure surgical asepsis. Assist surgeons in the application of casts in the treatment of fractures and in holding retractors and cutting suture.
4.  Set up sterile tables and include all the instruments, sponges, sutures, etc., necessary for the particular procedure.
5.  Sponge count – count sponges with circulating nurse before operation begins and when Closure started.
6.  Gowns and gloves surgeon.
7.  Assist surgeon in draping operative area to provide sterile field.
8.  Constant attention is given to the incision.
9.  Anticipate the needs of the surgeon in a timely manner.
10.  Keep sterile field neat, uncluttered, and safe.

Responsibilities of Certified Surgical Technologist (continued)

1.  Pass instruments and sutures as surgeon needs them.
2. Personally responsible for handling off specimens to the circulating nurse with correct, accurate labeling of specimen.
3.  After dressing is in place, request permission to break from the anesthesiologist/anesthetist.
4.  Washes hands thoroughly between patients and whenever necessary.

B. Assists in clean-up of room between cases and at the end of daily schedule which includes

      the following:

1.  bagging of soiled disposable items.
2.  disposing of soiled gloves and debris.
3.  transporting soiled instruments to the workroom (according to procedure).                                                    
4.   Assists in weekly and daily cleaning and restocking on the operating room as assigned.
5.   Is responsible for knowing and following procedures as established in the operating room (by reading the Policy and Procedure Manual).
6. Responsible for observing and reporting breaks in sterile surgical procedure.
7. Responsible for emptying all linen and trash from operating rooms between cases.
8. Assists Clinical Nurse Manager and Purchasing with inventory specific to the operating room. Identifies needs and lists for Purchasing.
9. Assists in turning and positioning of anesthetized patients and moving patients to and from the operating room tables.
10.  Wet mop floors and assists with general clean-up between cases to expedite the surgery schedule.
11.  Assist with prepping of surgical site when needed. Assists with pulling of cases and cleaning of instruments as needed.
12.  Assists with obtaining special instruments, sets and equipment as necessary from off-site locations. Assists with tracking equipment and instruments that have been loaned or barrowed.
13.  Assist with the training of new employees through mentoring to ensure that all new OR technicians are adequately prepared to assist on the surgical procedures that are performed at the Center.
14.  Demonstrates interpersonal skills that promote a team concept, resolves problems through the appropriate chain of command, is positive and professional, and can communicate effectively with surgeons, peers and other health care members.
15.  Demonstrates personal and professional qualities that include: contributing to maintain high morale, accepting constructive criticism, taking on additional responsibilities, respects administrative direction, is accountable for tasks and actions, accepts duties professionally, and works productively without direct supervision. 

20. Performs all other duties assigned.

Education/Training

High school diploma or equivalent and graduate of vocational and/or technical program in surgical technology, BCLS certified.

Experience

Certified Surgical Technologist’s training consisting of formal class work and./or practice on the job (1 year). Experience preferred.

Knowledge/Abilities

Thorough knowledge of aseptic technique; knowledge of surgical instruments and basic anatomy; physical and mental endurance; ability to apply scientific and technical principles to patient care.

***TOA is an equal opportunity employer. TOA conducts drug screens and background checks on applicants who accept employment offers***