Donor First Assist
Summary:
As defined by the American College of Surgeons, under the direct and indirect supervision of the Medical director, procurement surgeon/personnel, the first assistant provides aid in exposure, hemostasis, and other technical functions that help the surgeon/recovery personnel carry out a safe operation with optimal results. The first assistant must demonstrate application of knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and other education with additional training in the use of surgical instruments on tissues as well as the handling of instruments appropriately. Additionally, they must practice in a manner consistent with the mission and goals of the organization.
Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities:
Primary assistant for STA procurement surgeon/personnel as well as visiting recovery surgeons.
Ensures proper OR set up and donor preparation prior to start of recovery and provides real time education to hospital OR staff.
Demonstrates competency in performing the function of opening and/or closing wounds.
Demonstrates competency in the proper retraction of tissues, providing hemostasis by applying electrocautery to clamps or vessels in a safe and knowledgeable manner, sponging bodily fluids, utilizing suction techniques, applying clamps to superficial vessels, and tying off the vessels as needed. Additionally, able to place hemostatic sutures/ligatures/clips at the direction of the surgeon.
Demonstrates competency appropriately placing and securing retractors with or without padding.
Familiar with common positions related to the procedure and will be able to use the equipment necessary to provide the positioning needed.
Scrub for cases in surgical procurements according to established procedures and standards requiring advanced knowledge of anatomy, surgical instruments, surgeons' preferences, and other technical knowledge.
Recovers vessels, nodes, spleen, as well as research organs and special projects.
Obtains kidney biopsies, independently cannulates (or assists with cannulation of) kidneys, provides appropriate kidney anatomy as needed.
Mentor Surgical Services Coordinator (SSC) and collaborate towards the training of the SSC.
Competently package organs on the back table according to OPTN/STA policies as needed.
Participate with leadership with all aspects of the surgical procurement procedures.
Assist with quality initiatives and continual improvement projects related to the recovery process.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Compliance:
OSHA CATEGORY DEFINITION: Category 1 – The incumbent in this position has potential for occupational exposure.
The incumbent will have access to confidential material and is required to use discretion with this information and comply with STA Confidentiality policy.
Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements:
Minimum of associate degree
Completion of a surgical first assistant program meeting minimal requirements of the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting. Current CSFA or a minimum of 3 years of advanced OPO surgical experience.
CTP or CPTC Certification
Basic Life Support
Current Driver’s license required
Qualifications and Skills:
Current Driver’s license required
Excellent oral, written, and documentation skills
Must have the ability to communicate effectively with all levels of personnel and to represent the organization publicly
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team required
Ability to cope with high levels of stress and able to handle a heavy workload
Ability to be flexible in a dynamic work environment
Ability to travel in light and commercial aircraft or drive his/her personal auto in order to meet all job duties and responsibilities