Surgical Technologist

POSITION SUMMARY :

As a scrubbed member of the operating room team, plans for surgical cases, and prepares the surgical field with sterile instruments and supplies specific to each type of case.

Directly assists the surgeon within the sterile field during surgery while anticipating the surgeon’s needs throughout. Manages specimens, monitors medications on field.

Continually familiarizes self and other team members with newly developed surgical devices / equipment. Subject-matter expert on surgical sterility;

directly advocates for patient safety and infection prevention. Takes on-call shifts as required. Participates in continuous quality improvement activities and educational experiences in support of departmental and divisional nursing philosophy and objectives, as well as, Health System initiatives.

EDUCATION / TRAINING :

Minimum Graduate of an accredited program for surgical technologists.

LICENSURE / CERTIFICATION :

Certification as a Surgical Technologist preferred at time of hire; required within 1 year of assuming position. In lieu of certification, will consider five years of surgical technologist experience and successful completion of surgical technologist education program or other education program which includes aseptic techniques and operative procedures.

CPR certification required.

EXPERIENCE / SKILLS / ABILITIES :

Graduate of an accredited program for surgical technologists. Successful completion of annual clinical, age and job specific competencies and skill verification tools required.

Demonstrated knowledge of aseptic technique required. Familiarity with medical terminology, microbiology, and human anatomy / physiology.

Familiarity with procedural steps of each type of surgery and the specific anatomy involved. Detail oriented; good organizational and critical thinking skills required.

Ability to communicate in English both verbally and in writing.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS :

• Plans for, obtains and opens necessary equipment and supplies for assigned procedures, consulting surgeon’s preference card and other available resources.
• Performs surgical scrub process, gowns and gloves and prepares the sterile field for procedure according to hospital policy.

Maintains and monitors aseptic technique, reporting all observed breaks. When not scrubbed, functions as an assisting member of the operating team.

• In conjunction with the circulating nurse, counts instruments, blades, needles and sponges and other surgical items according to established policy and procedures.
• Passes instruments and supplies to the surgeon during procedure, anticipating his / her needs; holds retractors, provides visualization using surgical scopes, cuts suture.
• Assists in the education process of new employees, students and co-workers.
• Performs all aspects of care in an environment that optimizes patient and environmental safety and in accordance with applicable laws, regulations and compliance efforts.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

UW Health is committed to being a diverse, inclusive and anti-racist workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer.

Our integrity shines through in patient care interactions and our daily work practices as we work to embrace the knowledge, unique perspectives and qualities each employee and faculty member brings to work each day.

Applications from Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) individuals, LGBTQ+ and non-binary identities, women, persons with disabilities, military service members and veterans are strongly encouraged.

EOE, including disability / veterans.