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Northeast Georgia Health System is rooted in a foundation of improving the health of our communities.

About the Role:

Job Summary

Surgical Tech First Assistants provide aid in exposure, hemostasis, wound closure, and other intraoperative technical functions that help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the surgical patient. The surgical first assistant performs these functions under the direction and supervision of the surgeon and in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations. Employee performs clinical duties in accordance with population specific guidelines and adheres to National Patient Safety Goals as outlined in policy and procedures. This position will care for patients from infants through geriatric age groups.

Minimum Job Qualifications

• Licensure or other certifications: Certified Surgical Technologist required with successful completion of accredited first assist program.

• Educational Requirements: High School Diploma or GED. Must meet and fulfill the Certified Surgical Technologist job description qualifications & competencies.

• Minimum Experience:

• Other:

Preferred Job Qualifications

• Preferred Licensure or other certifications:

• Preferred Educational Requirements:

• Preferred Experience: Three (3) years Surgical Tech Experience, one (1) Year of First Assist Experience.

• Other:

Job Specific and Unique Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrates knowledge of surgical anatomy and physiology and operative technique relative to procedure in which the STFA is assisting

• Demonstrates knowledge and skill in applying principles of asepsis and infection control

• Recognizes safety hazards and initiates appropriate corrective actions

• Demonstrates the ability to function effectively and in coordination with the surgical team

• Performs effectively in stressful and emergency situations

• Demonstrates skill in behaviors that are unique to functioning as a First Assistant

• Meets requirements, statutes, regulations and all NGMC policies relevant to the STFA

Essential Tasks and Responsibilities

• Assists with positioning, prepping and draping.

• Provides hemostasis by clamping blood vessels, coagulating bleeding points, ligating vessels, and other means as directed by the surgeon.

• Provides exposure through appropriate use of retractors, instruments, suction, and sponging techniques.

• Accurately prepares specimens and communicates with the registered nurse.

• Handles tissue as directed by the surgeon.

• Suture fascia, subcutaneous tissue, and skin as directed by the surgeon.

• Place and suture drains as directed by the surgeon.

• Assist with removal of sutures and staples.

• Assist circulating nurse within scope of role as requested and under direction of RN

• Apply surgical dressings.

• Maintain aseptic technique/environment.

• Applies knowledge of surgical anatomy and physiology and operative technique to operative procedure.

• Perform other duties under the supervision of the surgeon.

Physical Demands

• Weight Lifted: Up to 50 lbs, Frequently 31-65% of time

• Weight Carried: Up to 50 lbs, Frequently 31-65% of time

• Vision: Heavy, Constantly 66-100% of time

• Kneeling/Stooping/Bending: Frequently 31-65%

• Standing/Walking: Constantly 66-100%

• Pushing/Pulling: Frequently 31-65%

• Intensity of Work: Constantly 66-100%

• Job Requires: Reasoning, Talking, Keyboarding

Working at NGHS means being part of something special: a team invested in you as a person, an employee, and in helping you reach your goals.

NGHS: Opportunities start here.

Northeast Georgia Health System is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will not tolerate discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, disability, ethnicity, national origin, marital status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected classification or status.