| DEPARTMENT SUMMARY: The Operating Room departments provide specialized care to patients throughout their perioperative experience. POSITION OVERVIEW: The Certified Surgical Tech (CST) functions as a member of the Surgical Services Perioperative Team. The CST performs delegated duties consistent with his/her scope of practice and functions within the philosophy and overall plan of care delivery. The CST may perform the duties of Scrub Technologist and/or Second Assisting Technologist in accordance with SCHS policies and procedures. The CST maintains a safe and sterile environment by implementing technical and aseptic practices according to AORN Standards and SCHS policies and procedures. Practices as a CST while observing the recommendations of AST and their governing organizations. This position does not directly manage other caregivers.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES: Functions as a member of the Surgical Services Perioperative team to assure patient care is accomplished in a safe, efficient and cost effective manner. Ensures the perioperative regime for each patient is implemented as prescribed by the physician. Prepares and sets up the operating room by helping with room setup and getting necessary equipment. Drapes and covers operating and instrument tables; lays out supplies and equipment in appropriate fashion for scheduled or emergency cases. Assists and procures appropriate equipment that will be used during surgery, checks for any malfunctions, and makes any needed adjustments Conducts all duties utilizing the safety zone to minimize risk of exposure, as outlined in SCHS policies and procedures. Follows established policies and procedures for counts of sponges, sharps, and instruments. Participates in the Pre-Brief, Time-out, and Debrief of the surgical procedure. Assists, when necessary, with positioning of the patient correctly on operating table. Gowns and gloves surgeon(s) and assistants in preparation for procedure. Assists in preparing and draping sterile field. Passes instruments and other supplies to the surgeon during procedure. Prepares sterile dressings and maintains highest standard of sterile technique during procedure. Anticipates needs of the surgical team and promotes efficient flow of the operative procedure. Works in a manner that minimizes distractions and maintains patient care focus. Assists and follows established procedures and SCHS policies for counts of sponges, sharps and instruments. Follows established procedures for the care of specimens and tissue. Participates in the cleaning of the operating room, breaking down cases at the end of the procedure, gathers up contaminated instruments and places them for decontamination and sterile processing that protects equipment to avoid damage and safety of other caregivers handling equipment and in a manner that , per SCHS policies and procedures Performs the following tasks when functioning as a Second Assist Technologist: holds retractors or instrument as directed by the surgeon, sponges or suctions operative site Conducts all activities with the highest standards of professionalism and confidentiality. Complies with all applicable laws, regulations, policies and procedures, supporting the health system’s corporate integrity efforts by acting in an ethical and appropriate manner, reporting known or suspected violations of applicable rules, and cooperating fully with all company investigations and proceedings Deliver customer service and/or patient care in a manner that promotes goodwill, is timely, efficient and accurate Participate with team members in facilitating patient’s and family’s learning in regard to the surgical experience. Practices creating a healing environment for patients, families and other caregivers. Performs stand by call as assigned. Varies by department. Supports the vision, mission and values of the organization in all respects. Supports Value Improvement Practice (VIP- Lean) principles of continuous improvement with energy and enthusiasm, functioning as a champion of change. Provides and maintains a safe environment for caregivers, patients and guests. Conducts all activities with the highest standards of professionalism and confidentiality. Complies with all applicable laws, regulations, policies and procedures, supporting the organization’s corporate integrity efforts by acting in an ethical and appropriate manner, reporting known or suspected violation of applicable rules, and cooperating fully with all organizational investigations and proceedings. Delivers customer service and/or patient care in a manner that promotes goodwill, is timely, efficient and accurate. May perform additional duties of similar complexity within the organization, as required or assigned. | 
