

Pre-surgery and post-surgery procedures are usually done alone and require self-confidence. Surgical assistants have to be adept at working both independently and in a team environment. After a surgery has been completed, it is their role to clean and restock the operating room.
Surgical first assistant scope of practice full#
Their role requires attention to detail and full concentration, always being ready to provide the surgeon with surgical tools or instruments as they need them. Surgical assistants are often asked to perform procedures such as inserting tubes, administering needles, closing wounds, cutting sutures, and sometimes even resuscitating patients who have stopped breathing. This allows the surgeon to focus on the surgery itself. They perform basic surgical duties, such as monitoring the electronic equipment and making sure that a patient's vital signs are responding normally.

They also set up any charts, x-rays, or patient documentation that is required.ĭuring the procedure, the surgical assistant is a direct aid to the surgeon. They interview the patients prior to surgery to learn about their health history and any previous medical conditions. They make sure that these tools are also in proper working order.Īdditionally, they are responsible for the preparation of the patients. Pre-surgery tasks largely involve the cleaning and sterilization of any medical devices or tools.
