Overview
Kettering Health is a not-for-profit system of 13 medical centers and more than 120 outpatient facilities serving southwest Ohio. We are committed to transforming the healthcare experience with high-quality care for every stage of life. Our service-oriented mission is in action every day, whether it’s by providing care in our facilities, training the next generation of healthcare professionals, or serving others through international outreach.
Responsibilities & Requirements
Responsibilities:
The Surgical Assistant is responsible for providing patient care before, during, and after surgery. The primary purpose of this position is to perform tasks that enable the surgeon to complete an efficient and safe operation. The Surgical Assistant reports to the Clinical Manager or Administrative Director.
- Immediately reports changes in the patient condition to the nurse.
- Appropriately labels and handles patient specimens.
- Competently performs sterile technique skills as defined by the unit’s scope of practice.
- Maintains a clean, safe environment free from clutter.
- Receives and responds to appropriate delegation; does not perform skills or care that have not been delegated by a licensed nurse.
- Recognizes and responds appropriately to emergency situations.
- Demonstrates safe infection control practices.
- Assists the nurse/physician with patient procedures.
- Performs preceptor activities as requested.
- Participates in one elective educational opportunity annually.
- Demonstrates a working knowledge of aseptic technique in preparing for and assisting in surgical procedures.
- Prepares the OR table, scrubs, and assists with surgeries; provides necessary instruments, supplies, and equipment during surgery.
- Acquires and demonstrates skills needed to operate specialized equipment used in the OR.
- Demonstrates a working knowledge of surgical procedures across multiple specialties.
Preferred Qualifications
Qualifications:
Minimum Education:
- Two years of college and/or completion of a specialty course for surgical assisting.
- Passes a pre-hire employment test.
Minimum Work Experience:
- 2-4 years’ experience in general and/or specialty areas preferred, especially in Orthopedic or Neuro surgeries.
- Surgical experience is preferred.
- Experience as a Surgical Technician (ST) is preferred.
- Required Licenses:
- Certified First Assistant.
- Must be certified in an approved Surgical Assistant program (CFA, SCS, CRNFA, or PA-C) within the first 12 months of employment.
Required Skills:
- Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing and varied work environment based on patient needs.
- Ability to perform effectively under stress and in emergency situations.
- Ability to recognize safety hazards and initiate appropriate actions.
- A positive, therapeutic approach toward healthcare, team members, and diverse patient populations.
- Proficiency in OR skills.
- Strong customer service skills.
- Able to multitask, prioritize, and function effectively in a high-stress environment.
- Certification in CPR.