Surgical Tech Registry NWIN

• Independently performs surgical scrub role within the operative field and is able to scrub in all services, adult and pediatric.
• Applies knowledge of surgical techniques.
• Applies knowledge related to emergency and trauma situations and surgical procedures in the operating room.
• Demonstrates infection control practices by utilizing proper aseptic technique while dealing with blood/body fluid.
• Correctly uses all sterilizers and high level disinfectors related to surgical procedures; documents appropriately and maintains competencies, as required.
• In conjunction with Unit leadership, Charge Nurse and Central Sterile Processing, demonstrates organizational skills in case preparation, case cart picking and accurate room set-up for instrument and tray contents in scheduled cases. Sets up instruments, supplies and equipment according to surgeon’s preference cards, policies and procedures and standards of care.
• Operates and troubleshoots video systems as needed.
• Provides cost-effective care by proper use of equipment and instruments. Demonstrates appropriate utilization of supplies based on assessed needs, standard of care and surgeon’s preference cards.
• Demonstrates knowledge of immediate and long term outcomes of surgical activities including, but not limited to: sponge, needle and instrument count, aseptic technique, proper handling of specimens, proper labeling and handling of medications on sterile field and care of electrosurgical active electrodes and implants.
• Properly handles and cares for instrumentation.
• Assists in performing care of the surgical patient, including:

• Helps team to prepare room
• Helps open packs, supplies, and instrument sets
• Helps position patient
• Monitors sterile field
• Opens sterile supplies onto sterile field before procedure
• Performs counts
• Handles specimen(s)
• Assists with emergency situations
• Assures quality measures are met
• In collaboration with RN Circulator determines individual patient/surgeon needs and adjusts instrumentation and supplies according to those needs.
• Inventories and restocks supplies in individual OR suites and Specialty Service carts.
• Communicates with oncoming shift any pertinent information regarding patients or unit activities.
• Acts as a resource person to patients, visitors, physicians and other staff.
• Communicates to Charge Nurse, Perioperative management team accurate and timely information regarding patient status and OR schedule.
• Assists in efficient room turnover and case set-up.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Graduate of Accredited Surgical Technologist program.
• Minimum experience if graduated from an accredited Surgical Technologist school

• Interpersonal skills necessary to facilitate communication
• Basic knowledge and ability to perform surgical technologist skills, analytical skills necessary to interpret and communicate data relevant to direct patient care to RN and MD
• Ability to function as a member of the surgical team, carrying out the instructions of surgeons and of the Circulating RN with speed, accuracy, and concentration
• Able to prioritize daily activities
• Able to recognize and intervene in life threatening situations
• Able to maintain composure under stressful circumstances
• Demonstrates higher level critical thinking and problem solving skills, thinks on an organizational level
• Demonstrates a competent, courteous and professional manner with coworkers, physicians, visitors, patients and others
• Maintaining confidentiality in execution of all duties, and superior knowledge and expert practice in the scrub role in advanced surgical procedures
• Exhibits a high level of collaboration with peers in making decisions related to surgical patient care. Demonstrates critical thinking skills in relation to anticipating the perioperative needs of the patient and surgeon
• Able to perform repetitive and physically demanding tasks
• Able to wear lead aprons (ranging in weight from 10-25 pounds) for prolonged periods of time for protection from exposure to radiation
• Able to fulfill on-call responsibilities, being alert and ready to work in emergency situations

• CST certification required within 12 month of start date
• BLS required

• Job Type/FTE: 0.10
• Shift: Registry
• Unit/Department: Perioperative Services
• CBA Code: Non-Union

University of Chicago Hospital