Surgical Technologist- Labor and Delivery

The L&D Surgical Tech assists the surgeon as a scrub tech and assists the circulating nurse under her supervision. The Surgical Tech handles all of the equipment, instruments, and supplies during c/sections as well as protects the surgical field. The L&D tech also is responsible for assisting with routine nursing procedures and clerical tasks related to patient care under the supervision of the L&D RN.

Job Qualifications:

• Preferably a graduate of an accredited surgical technology program with experience
• High School graduate or equivalent preferred
• Current Basic Life Support Certification (CPR)
• Cognitive ability to follow directions.
• Basic computer skills
• Nursing aide training and/or Nursing Assistant Certification preferred

Chain of Command

 L&D Surgical Tech L&D RN L&D Charge Nurse Perinatal Nurse Manager House Manager Chief Nursing Officer

Physical Demands

 Occasionally = 1 - 33% of the workday

Frequently = 34 - 66% of the workday

Continuously = 67 - 100% of the workday

Standing or Walking - Continuously - The tech may be on her/his feet the majority of the day to perform direct and in-direct patient care as well as completing other assigned functions of their job. Sitting –

Frequently - The tech is required to sit at various desks for documentation via paper or electronically via computer or other tasks such as in-services or clerical work.

Bending - Frequently - Bending is required in most job activities in patient care. The tech should be able to maneuver in small areas, such as around the birthing bed and fetal monitor, or during a delivery or c/section. Bending may also be done for counting sponges, sutures, and providing a clean, safe environment.

Climbing/Reaching - Occasionally - The tech should be able to climb a foot stool or small ladder when stocking supplies as well as reaching for supplies. The tech should be able to stand on foot stool at the patient's bedside if needed.

Push/Pull - Frequently - The tech may perform push/pull motions when transporting patients and/or moving equipment on various surfaces.

Handling/Lifting 0-24 lbs - frequently 25-100 lbs - occasionally

The employee may be required to help lift and/or handle objects from 1 - 300 lbs. Assistance in moving patients and use of the pull/push activity is done frequently. For heavier activities, staff should always seek assistance and use ergonomic training.

Manual Dexterity Hands Simple grasp - continuously Firm grasp - frequently Fine manipulation - frequently Feet Standing and/or walking - continuously or frequently Fine and gross motor skills are used in writing, computer work, handling or passing instruments or sutures and assisting the surgeon.

Speaking/Hearing - Continuously Speaking - ability to communicate with patients, co-workers, physicians, and/or visitors Hearing - must have functional with or without correction Seeing - must have functional with or without correction

Patient Population

The Labor and Delivery department is available for any female patient of child-bearing age, who is determined by the physician to have a condition associated with pregnancy which requires close monitoring/observation. The L&D tech may assist with nursing care to patients from newborn to adult.

Mental and Emotional Demands/Requirements

The L&D surgical tech must be able to: Manage stress appropriately Anticipate the needs of the surgeon or RN, making decisions under pressure. Manage anger, fear, and hostility appropriately Handle multiple priorities Work independently, concentration and memory to detail

Possible known hazards: Cuts/sticks from instruments, needles Exposure to hazardous chemicals (formalin) Strains from lifting patients or equipment Injury from irrational patients

Principal Accountabilities

1. Performs duties in accordance with established L&D policies and procedures to assure high quality care to all obstetrical patients.
2. Maintains professional manner in dress and behavior.
3. Practices effective and positive communication skills, verbal and non-verbal
4. Knowledge of & adheres to policies of the unit, dept., & facility. Supports OCH philosophy, objectives and policies.
5. Displays a positive and professional attitude and works effectively with all levels of personnel. Works well with other staff as a team to provide optimal patient care.
6. Has read and has knowledge of Employee handbook and other HR policies including attendance and tardiness
7. Attends and/or completes all required in-services and staff meetings.
8. Participates in the orientation of new staff.
9. Maintains a level of supplies and equipment to me