Job Summary:

The First Assistant in Surgery is a key member of the surgical team, providing direct support to the surgeon and ensuring optimal patient outcomes during surgical procedures. This role involves advanced technical skills, knowledge of surgical techniques, and the ability to anticipate the needs of the surgical team. The First Assistant works collaboratively with surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals in a fast-paced and demanding environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Preoperative Preparation: Review patient medical history and surgical plans to ensure a thorough understanding of the procedure. Assist with positioning, prepping, and draping the patient for surgery. Ensure all necessary instruments, equipment, and supplies are available and sterile. Intraoperative Duties: Provide direct assistance to the surgeon, including retraction, suctioning, suturing, and hemostasis. Handle instruments and devices with precision, adhering to aseptic techniques. Assist in tissue dissection, graft preparation, and wound closure as delegated by the surgeon. Monitor and manage equipment, ensuring proper function during the procedure. Anticipate the needs of the surgeon and surgical team to maintain efficiency and patient safety. Postoperative Care: Assist with the application of dressings and stabilization of the surgical site. Facilitate patient transfer from the operating room to recovery areas, ensuring continuity of care. Provide input on post-surgical care and recovery plans as needed. Team Collaboration: Communicate effectively with the surgical team to ensure seamless workflow and patient safety. Participate in preoperative briefings and postoperative debriefings. Support a culture of continuous improvement and adherence to best practices.

Qualifications:

Education: Graduate of an accredited surgical first assistant program or equivalent clinical training. Certification as a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) or equivalent is preferred. Experience: Experience in a surgical environment, with expertise in [specialty, e.g., general surgery, orthopedics, etc.]. Demonstrated proficiency in assisting with a variety of surgical procedures. Skills and Competencies: Strong knowledge of surgical anatomy, instruments, and techniques. Excellent manual dexterity and attention to detail. Ability to work under pressure and adapt to rapidly changing situations. Strong communication and teamwork skills. Certifications: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certifications.

Work Environment:

Requires standing for extended periods in a sterile environment. Exposure to biohazards, sharp instruments, and intense lighting. May involve lifting and transferring patients or equipment.