Overview

Under direct supervision performs delegated patient care functions assisting in surgical procedures and in the preparation of supplies and equipment in an operating room.

Key Responsibilities

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified.

1. Assists in the preparation of the operating room and in the selection of surgical instruments and equipment by reviewing the surgeon preference list and conferring with the circulating nurse to gather appropriate equipment.

A. Counts needles, sponges and instruments.

B. Ensures medications on the sterile field are properly labeled.

C. Ensures fluids are maintained at a safe temperature.

D. Ensures instrumentation is cleaned at point of use, restrung, and sprayed with enzymatic cleaner.

2. Performs preoperative preparation of patients, including skin preparation, draping and positioning patients for procedures in accordance with department procedures and protocols, as needed.

A. Matches preference cards [PLs] to correct scheduled cases and work with assigned RN to update PLs working with individual surgeons and surgical services.

3. Hands instruments to the surgeon as requested and/or required, preparing suture material for use, and assisting with gowning and gloving of surgical team in accordance with departmental protocols.

4. Performs duties associated with basic patient care, including picking-up blood, delivering specimens to clinical laboratories, performing room turnover between cases, escorting patients when assigned and checking emergency carts for needed supplies. Transports patients and runs errands as directed by RN.

5. Prepares supplies for sterilization including washing and wrapping instruments.

6. Ensures appropriate sterilization methods are used with various implants, instruments and supplies using standardized sterilized indicators.

7. Assists the RN as requested in ensuring that instrumentation, supplies, equipment, and specialty items are ordered, stored, and ready for use when required.

8. Limits supply and instrument costs through good inventory control. Evaluates new products and provides feedback. Aides process to improve cost containment and decrease waste in the room.

9. Orientates new Surgical Technologists by explaining department policies and procedures.

10. Assists in the development of policies, procedures and protocols at the department levels

11. Performs other duties as assigned.