Surgical Services Technician

Department Overview

The Surgical Services Technician performs the delegated duties under the supervision of the surgeon and R.N. to ensure that the OR environment is safe, that equipment is cleaned and functions appropriately, and that operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety. The ST possesses expertise in the application of sterile and aseptic technique; they combine the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and implementation tools and technologies to safely facilitate invasive and/or diagnostic procedures. The ST has the ability to manage stressful/unusual situations in a positive manner and embraces the OHSU Core Competencies (Accountability, Collaboration, Communication, Diversity, Integrity, Respect, Service Orientation, Teamwork) it their practice. The role requires that all policies, procedures, and patient safety initiatives will be followed.

Function/Duties of Position

Surgical Preparation and Assistance:

• Checks schedule of surgeries to be performed during shift; reviews procedure cards for needed supplies and instruments.
• Demonstrates proficiency and working knowledge of sterile technique.
• Performs appropriate surgical counts with circulator prior to operation and appropriate intervals per policy.
• Assists with gowning/gloving surgeon and assistants as well as draping sterile field.
• Demonstrates working knowledge of equipment, instrumentation, supplies.
• Any concerns or issues are escalated through appropriate mechanism to CTS, CSPD or materials management. 6. Passes instruments and supplies to surgeon/assistant maintaining highest standard of sterile technique during the procedure.
• Prepares sterile dressings. Cleans and prepares instruments for transport to sterile processing.
• Assists other members of the team with room turnovers in established timelines.
• Assist with end of day procedures and uses unassigned time productively.
• Responds appropriately as directed in a code/emergency situation.
• Provides fundamental components of patient comfort, safety, privacy and respect within the perioperative setting. 

Communication, Teamwork, and Leadership:

• Demonstrates effective communication skills, which convey a positive and supportive message.
• Collaborates with surgical team members (nursing, anesthesia and surgeon) on specific issues or concerns. Seeks input and consultation.
• Reports incidents and errors verbally and in writing in accordance with established procedures.
• Ensures confidentiality is maintained in all forms of communication.
• Demonstrates flexibility in response to unexpected changes in assignment and/or workload.
• Works collaboratively with OHSU personnel, maintaining communication that facilitates teamwork and reduces conflict.
• Participates in projects and committees and requested/assigned.

Teaching and Education:

• Participates in orientation and teaching of area specific skills.
• Serves as a resource for other staff members, students and residents.
• Assumes responsibility for continued development of own skills.
• Completes all required educational programs and activities within established timelines.
• Meets and maintains minimum qualifications for the position.

Organizational Participation Responsibilities:

• Incorporates OHSU service excellence/customer service philosophy into all aspects of care provided to patients and families and in interactions within the work setting.
• Demonstrates the ability to access departmental and organizational policies and procedures.
• Complies with organizational policies, procedures and the OHSU Code of Conduct.
• Demonstrates fiscally responsible resource utilization and promotes cost containment as appropriate for a surgical unit.

Required Qualifications

BLS certification. 

Successful completion of an accredited Surgical Technology program OR meets the eligibility requirements to sit for certification test. 

Must have excellent communication and listening skills, the ability to work collaboratively in a team, and the flexibility to prioritize and adapt in stressful situations

Preferred Qualifications

• High School Diploma

Additional Details

Constant exposure to usual hospital environmental conditions; exposure to cleaning chemicals, possible exposure to body fluids/tissue, infectious processes and radiation.

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