The nurse is reviewing with the surgical technician how to prepare a sterile field

Surgical Services - Operating Room Scrub Tech

Job Summary

The Operating Room Scrub assists the surgeon at the sterile field by providing appropriate and adequate sterile instruments and other supplies during the operative procedures. Maintains the surgical field through aseptic practices. Works under the supervision of the Surgery Team Leader as a member of the perioperative team. Assists in the nursing care and preparation of the surgical patient for surgery and performs routine and delegated duties according to the standards of practice and policies of the facility and department. Facilitates and demonstrates cooperative behavior with colleagues and supervisors at all times.

Qualifications

Education/Certification: Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technician Program. Certification as a Surgical Technologist
preferred. Current BLS required.

Experience: Operating room experience preferred

Equipment/Technology: Must have basic computer skills.

Language/Communication: Must have the ability to effectively read, write, and speak English.

Mathematical Skills: Basic

Mental Capabilities: Ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Can adapt to rapidly changing workloads due to changes in the surgery census. Can frequently and consistently make sound judgments.

Interpersonal: Works well with others.

Performance: Can work well under pressure and meet multiple and competing deadlines.

Physical Demands

For the minimum physical demands required to complete the essential functions for this position, including vision, hearing, repetitive motion and environment, see the Duties and Responsibilities below. 

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Duties and Responsibilities

Surgical Services Scrub Technician - Operation Room

1. Is responsible for the setting up and performance of surgical cases by assembly of equipment and supplies according to physician preference.
2. Is responsible for the setting up and performance of surgical cases by opening sterile pack, supplies, and instruments according to sterile technique.
3. Prepares sterile field, including sponge, needle, and instrument counts when needed. Ensures the sterility of supplies and instrumentations used during operative procedures.
4. Works cooperatively in the cleanup of the operating room following surgery, including the proper disposal of used supplies and sharps, the cleaning and decontamination of instruments, equipment and operating room.
5. Handles specimens according to proper procedure.
6. May act as an assistant to the circulating nurse in preparing the patient for surgery, positioning the patient in the appropriate position, and moving the patient to and from operating table. Assists the circulator in other duties as directed.
7. Demonstrates understanding and utilization of principles of asepsis in all duties.
8. Uses supplies conservatively and efficiently.
9. During surgical procedures:
   
   • Passes instruments to the surgeon and the assistant.
   • Is attentive to the operative area by being alert for breaks in technique.
   • Maintains an attitude of willingness to assist with the surgical procedure.
   • Is aware of the location of all instruments, needles, sponges, and specimens.
10. Utilizes appropriate techniques to assist the surgeon with injection of local and closure of body planes when specifically requested by a surgeon. Training will be by said surgeon or certification from and accredited organization.
    • In order for a Certified Surgical Technician III to perform these procedures, he/she is required to have a surgeon sign a competency form. The scrub technician can only perform these procedures under the direct observation and direction of the operating surgeon.
    • Will close skin with method indicated by surgeon (suture, staples, etc.)
    • Facial skin suturing will not be allowed.
11. Assists the circulator with responsibilities for intra-operative safety related to infection control, prevention of exposure to blood-borne pathogens, and handling hazardous material.
12. Prepares soiled instruments for cleaning. Assists as needed in the decontamination and reprocessing of instruments.
13. Works cooperatively with other staff in putting unused supplies and equipment away and restocking rooms.
14. Adheres to and practices Idaho Falls Community Hospital Compliance Program and participates in Performance Improvement activities.
15. Performs on-call duties for emergency surgeries.
16. Maintains professional competency through appropriate continuing education.
17. Is fully knowledgeable of policies and procedures specific to the department of surgical services.
18. Performs job duties in agreement with AST Standards of Practice.
19. Assists with any other duties as deemed necessary.

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For a more detailed description of the physical demands and the work environment for our Surgical Services Scrub Tech position, please review this PDF. 

How does a nurse prepare a sterile field?

What steps are included in preparing a sterile field?

Which of the following techniques is appropriate for adding sterile items to a sterile field?

What is a recommended guideline for maintaining a sterile field?