The First Surgical Assistant  reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.Demonstrates clinical expertise and in-depth knowledge in direct patient care activities. Recognizes safety hazards and initiates appropriate corrective action. Applies principles of a sepsis and infection control in a skillful manner. Applies knowledge of surgical anatomy, physiology, and operative technique relative to operative procedures. Responsibilities:Performs positioning, prepping, and draping of the patient, including placement of urinary drainage catheter. Provides homeostasis by clamping blood vessels, coagulating bleeding points, ligating vessels, and by other means as directed by the surgeon. Provides exposure through appropriate use of instruments, retractors, suctioning, and sponging techniques. Handles tissue as directed by the surgeon during the operative procedure. Performs wound closure as directed by the surgeon Utilizes appropriate techniques to assist with closure of body planes. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Postoperative subcutaneous injection of local anesthetic agent as directed by surgeon. Applies surgical dressings, liquid or spray occlusive materials. Provides assistance in securing drainage systems to tissue. Assists with transfer of the patient from the operating room. Assist with room turnover. Practices within limitations of preparation and experience. Clinical Works in collaboration with the surgeon and health care team to achieve optimal patient outcomes. Practices at the direction of the surgeon and does not concurrently function as a scrub person. Maintains surgical participation log. Maintains competency consistent with ABSA competency statements. Utilizes recognized expert sources and incorporates appropriate research and related literature into practice. Integrates theoretical knowledge base and clinical expertise in decision making. Maintains current First Assistant certification as defined by the ABSA or LLC-ST. Proof of suturing and tying competence through a hospital competency every two years. Currency in BLS/CPR. Documentation of continuing education in the first assistant related topics. Demonstrates the following professional attributes: Exemplifies a professional image in appearance, manner and presentation. Is an advocate for patients and their significant key others, co-workers, the community, and the nursing profession. Consistently demonstrates accountability. Demonstrates effective interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with others. Assumes a leadership role in professional activities. Collaborates with management in problem solving and decision making. Serves as a role model for "Patients First." Serves as subject matter expert and resource for OR staff members. Participates in formal and informal education of students, and non-nursing personnel. Integrates research and related literature into formal and informal education of others.
