CERTIFIED FIRST ASSISTANT - PRN

Essential Functions
The Surgical First Assistant should not simultaneously function in the scrub role when serving as a First Assistant.
Aseptic technique
· Follows the appropriate technique as defined by AORN guidelines for the hand scrub
· Initiates corrective action when a break in technique occurs
· Inspects/maintains sterility of supplies/trays
· Protects integrity of the sterile field
Maintenance of surgical site
· Provides correct sponging, direct pressure and clamping
· Operates suction equipment
· Provides cautery as directed, demonstrating correct use to avoid destruction of tissue
· Responds to the needs and anticipates the needs of the surgeon
· Adheres to the standards of care as outlined by the American Operation Nurses Association
Preparation of surgical field
· Assists in gathering all supplies needed for the procedure
· Assists in transferring the patient to the OR table and verifies identity of the patient
· Positions patient safely on the table
· Performs the proper surgical scrub on the correct operative site
· Drapes for maximum exposure to the operative site
Retracting
· Retracts as directed by the physician
· Consistently retracts the tissues to maintain adequate exposure while maintaining the safety of the patient
Closure of incision
· Identifies the correct suturing method for the area involved
· Demonstrates competency in the correct method of suturing/knot tying for the various types of tissue
· Coordinates suturing move with the surgeon and cuts sutures appropriately
· Utilizes stapling devices appropriately
Secures drainage devices
Other surgical duties may include:
· assist with intraoperative positions
· injection of local anesthesia
· insertion of trocars
· preparation of grafts
· securing drains
· application of casts
· facilitating patient rounds
· changing of dressings
· and other duties as assigned by the supervising physician
Medical Office Duties:
· Summons and prepares patient for office visit.
· Assists the physician with medical office procedure.
· Administers medication, including injections; documents medication given or prescribed by ordering physicians as required by specialty.
· Adheres to nursing policy and procedure when documenting information in patient’s medical record.
· Maintains the integrity of the office
· Performs additional duties specific to the specialty, and/or acquires additional license or credentials.
· Accepts responsibility for reading and referencing new policies and procedures and Nursing Update newsletters and assumes responsibility for maintaining current certification in CPR.
Supervisory Responsibility
None
Work Environment & Physical Demands
Ability to walk or stand for up to 80% of work time, and to push /pull equipment weighing up to approximately 40 pounds for up to 20% of work tune.
Exposures to blood and body fluids, and all areas of patient care. Also exposed to
cool temperatures, hazardous equipment, fumes /odors and noise. Physical/Mental – Standing in one place for prolonged periods of time.
Manual Dexterity – Handling of surgical instruments

Travel
No travel is expected for this position except to satellite offices.