Surgical First Assist/Surgical Tech

Surgical Technologist / First Assist

The Surgical Technologist / First Assist is responsible for supporting the surgical team before, during, and after operative procedures. This position performs surgical technologist duties while also providing first-assist support to the surgeon within the individual’s education, training, certification, and scope of practice. The Surgical Technologist / First Assist helps maintain a safe, efficient surgical environment and ensures appropriate instrumentation, supplies, and equipment are available throughout each procedure.

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Support the mission, vision, and values of the organization. 
2. Prepare the operating room for surgical procedures, including equipment, instruments, supplies, and sterile field setup. 
3. Review physician preference cards and ensure appropriate instruments, supplies, implants, and equipment are available for scheduled procedures. 
4. Maintain sterile technique and follow infection prevention practices throughout surgical procedures. 
5. Perform surgical counts in collaboration with the circulating RN according to facility policy. 
6. Anticipate the needs of the surgeon and surgical team by passing instruments, supplies, and equipment efficiently throughout the procedure. 
7. Assist with patient positioning, skin preparation, draping, and other perioperative activities within scope of practice. 
8. Provide first-assist support to the surgeon as permitted by training, certification, facility policy, and applicable regulations. 
9. Perform first-assist functions as appropriate, including providing exposure, retraction, hemostasis, tissue handling, and assistance with wound closure under the direction of the surgeon. 
10. Assist with application of dressings and other post-procedure activities as directed. 
11. Handle surgical specimens appropriately and according to facility policy. 
12. Assist with room turnover and preparation for subsequent surgical cases. 
13. Inspect instruments and equipment for proper function and communicate any concerns or needed repairs. 
14. Collaborate professionally with surgeons, anesthesia providers, nurses, sterile processing staff, and other members of the perioperative team. 
15. Follow organizational policies, regulatory and accreditation standards, and applicable professional guidelines. 
16. Participate in quality improvement and patient safety initiatives. 
17. Maintain patient privacy and confidentiality at all times.

 Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technology and/or Surgical First Assistant program, as applicable. 
• Current surgical technologist certification, such as CST, preferred or required based on applicable state and facility requirements. 
• Current CSFA, CSA, or other recognized Surgical First Assistant credential, as applicable to the position. 
• Current BLS certification. 
• Previous operating room or ambulatory surgery center experience preferred. 
• Demonstrated knowledge of surgical instrumentation, sterile technique, infection prevention, and perioperative practices. 
• Experience providing first-assist services preferred. 
• Ability to anticipate surgeon and procedural needs and work effectively in a fast-paced surgical environment. 
• Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills.