Surgical assistants provide support to surgeons during operations, as well as performing tasks before and after surgery. They must have excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure. Accredited programs for surgical assistants in the US range from ten months to two years. Certification is also required.
The primary role of the surgical assistant is to provide support to the surgeon during operations. In addition, they usually also have tasks to perform before and after surgery. These types of healthcare careers are ideal for people who want to be involved in caring for patients during surgery, but who don’t want the high-pressure job of a surgeon.
Prior to surgery, it may be necessary for the surgical assistant to set up the operating room by setting up all the instruments needed during the procedure and checking the equipment to ensure it is working properly. They can also help prepare patients for surgery. Finally, they must also review the procedure and ensure paperwork and permits are completed.
During a procedure, the surgical assistant will work closely with a surgeon or surgical nurse, usually working directly under the surgeon’s or nurse’s supervision. During the procedure, they have responsibilities related to both the patient and the surgeon. They must monitor the patient’s condition and vital signs to ensure they are physically facing the surgery and must also be attentive to the surgeon’s needs and provide them with the necessary instruments and equipment. Other assistance, such as cutting sutures, helping to retract or secure tissue, and closing and healing wounds, is provided as needed and under the direction of the surgeon. When the procedure is complete, the surgical assistant may be responsible for cleaning the equipment and ensuring the operating room is restocked for the next operation.
People working in medical careers like this must have a mix of personal and professional skills to help them cope with what can be a very demanding job. A surgical assistant must have excellent manual dexterity, high attention to detail and the ability to function well even under pressure or when time is short. The ability to concentrate and stay focused for long periods of time is also essential. Surgical assistants must function well in a team and be able to work effectively and independently as well.
In the United States, accredited programs for surgical assistants range from ten months to two years and include theoretical and practical courses. Many surgical assistant qualifications have stringent requirements, such as the requirement of a three- or four-year diploma or associate’s degree, along with professional experience. In addition to earning a degree, most states require a surgical assistant to obtain certification from an organization such as the National Council on Surgical Technology and Surgical Care.
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