1.    Prepares equipment and supplies for use in the procedure. Determine room is in readiness and OR suite is stocked for case.

2.    Scrubs, gown and glove self and other team members for the procedures, prepares sterile tables and instruments, utilizing proper aseptic technique.

3.    Prepares instruments and supplies on sterile field in a timely manner. Passes instruments accurately during case.

4.    Counts sponges, needles and instruments with RN Circulator according to established procedure, label all solutions/medications as they are added to the sterile field.

5.    Handles instruments and supplies correctly and ensure their proper functioning.

6.    Collects and maintains specimens, and assures proper identification by the staff nurse.

7.    Anticipate the surgeons’ needs and request additional items from RN Circulator in sufficient time for surgical teams use.

8.    Utilizes physician preference cards in preparing for specific operative procedures and updates after each case.

9.    Utilizes principles of standard precautions during surgical procedures.

10.  Direct and assist with between case clean-up and proceed with preparation for the next case, restocks supplies and equipment after surgical procedures.

11.  Performs instrument reprocessing and sterilization procedures.

a.    Identifies instruments and places in instrument sets completely.

b.    Operates sterilizers.

c.     Maintains sterilization records through documentation of the sterilization process.

d.    Reports problems with sterilization immediately to the OR Charge Nurse.

e.    Performs Attest (biological test) appropriately.

12.  Assists in orientation of new employee and provides support as needed.

13.  Demonstrates accountability by staying informed of current changes in practice, new equipment, and quality initiatives.

a.    Attends/completes all required in-services, computer-based learning.

14.  Stays current in changing technologies used in surgery.

15.  Performs first assistant duties as outlined in the Huntsville Hospital policy, under the direct supervision of the surgeon who is physically present in the surgical suite where the case is being performed.

a.    Knowledge of surgical anatomy, physiology, and operative technique related to the specific operative procedures in which the Surgical First Assistant participates.

b.    Provides hemostasis by clamping blood vessels, coagulating, and/or ligating vessels, and by other means as directed by the surgeon.

c.     Provide exposure through appropriate use of instruments, retractors, suctioning, and sponging techniques.

d.    Performs wound closure external to the fascia as directed by the attending surgeon.

e.    Places and secures drains

                           i.    May assist the surgeon to establish puncture wound for drain/catheter.

f.      Practices within limitations of preparation and experience.