SURGICAL ASSISTANT

JOB DESCRIPTION

Assist in operations, under the supervision of surgeons. May, in accordance with state laws, help surgeons to make incisions and close surgical sites, manipulate or remove tissues, implant surgical devices or drains, suction the surgical site, place catheters, clamp or cauterize vessels or tissue, and apply dressings to surgical site.

OTHER JOB TITLES

Certified First Assistant (CFA), Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant (CRNFA), Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA), Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), Certified Surgical Technician, Gastrointestinal Technician (GI Technician), Registered Nurse First Assistant (RNFA), Surgical First Assistant, Surgical Scrub Technician (Surgical Scrub Tech), Surgical Technician (Surgical Tech)

JOB TASKS

  • Verify the identity of patient or operative site.

  • Monitor and maintain aseptic technique throughout procedures.

  • Cover patients with surgical drapes to create and maintain a sterile operative field.

  • Coordinate or participate in the positioning of patients, using body stabilizing equipment or protective padding to provide appropriate exposure for the procedure or to protect against nerve damage or circulation impairment.

  • Maintain an unobstructed operative field, using surgical retractors, sponges, or suctioning and irrigating equipment.

ANNUAL SALARY

  • Workers on average earn $30.13/hr. – $62,680 annual.
  • Projected Growth (2019-2029) Much Faster than average (8% or Higher)
  • Projected job openings (2019-2029) 3,500

REQUIRED EDUCATION

Training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate’s degree, certificate

REFLECT ON THE CAREER

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RESOURCES

O*NET ONLINE

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OCCUPATIONAL OUTLOOK HANDBOOK

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