How to Be Surgical First Assistant - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 30, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of a Surgical First Assistant (SFA) is highly important in the operating room. This position allows for increased efficiency and accuracy during surgery, as the SFA works closely with the surgeon, providing direct assistance and support throughout the entire procedure. By having a SFA in the operating room, the surgeon is able to focus on the surgical field, allowing for more precise and accurate incisions.

the SFA's presence helps to minimize the risk of potential complications or errors during surgery, as they are able to provide additional guidance and supervision. As such, having a SFA present in the operating room can help to reduce operating times and improve patient safety.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelors Degree. The first step to becoming a Surgical First Assistant is to obtain a Bachelors degree in a health-related field. This could include biology, pre-med, nursing, or a related field.
Obtain Certification. The next step is to obtain a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). This certification requires passing an exam and completing an accredited program in surgical first assisting.
Gain Experience. It is important for Surgical First Assistants to gain experience in the field. This can be done through working as a Medical Assistant, Surgical Technologist, or other related positions.
Find Employment. Once you have obtained the necessary certification and experience, you will need to find a job as a Surgical First Assistant. You can look for jobs at local hospitals or search online for open positions.
Complete Continuing Education. Most states require that Surgical First Assistants complete continuing education courses each year to maintain their certification. This is important to ensure you are up to date on the latest standards and procedures.

The need for reliable and qualified Surgical First Assistants is paramount for successful surgical operations. This is because Surgical First Assistants provide essential technical support and assistance to surgeons during the procedure. They must possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to be able to handle complex operations and ensure patient safety.

In order to be reliable and qualified, Surgical First Assistants must complete rigorous training, acquire certifications, and maintain continuing education requirements. Furthermore, they must demonstrate a commitment to excellence, stay up to date with the latest technologies, and possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills. All of these factors come together to create a well-rounded team of reliable and qualified Surgical First Assistants that can ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.

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Job Description

Assists the surgeon in performing complex surgical procedures by providing aid in exposure, hemostasis, closure and other intraoperative technical functions that help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient.
Monitors and maintains the sterile environment of the operating room by adhering to accepted standards of asepsis.
Utilizes the surgical instruments and supplies as required during the surgical procedure.
Anticipates the surgeon's needs while in the operating room and assists with selection of appropriate instruments and sutures.
Sutures tissue and/or applies wound dressings as directed by the surgeon.
Applies casts/splints as required.
Assists in positioning patients for surgery and applying sterile drapes.
Cleans and sets up operating room for surgical procedures.
Assists in positioning, prepping, and draping patients for surgery.
Assists in preparing and administering medications as directed by the surgeon or anesthesiologist.
Performs circulating duties as needed, including obtaining supplies, instruments, and equipment for use during the procedure.
Documents pertinent information in patients medical record according to department policy.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of anatomy and physiology
Ability to assess and monitor patient vital signs
Ability to perform surgical suturing, knot tying, and instrument handling
Knowledge of perioperative procedures and protocols
Ability to utilize aseptic technique and infection control measures
Ability to anticipate and respond to the needs of the surgeon
Ability to recognize potential complications and seek assistance when necessary
Proficiency in surgical instrumentation, equipment, and supplies
Knowledge of sterile technique and preparation of the operating room
Understanding of patient positioning, draping, and exposure of operative field
Ability to identify and communicate potential problems to the surgeon
Knowledge of pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative care

Having strong surgical skills is essential for a Surgical First Assistant. This includes having knowledge of anatomy related to each procedure, understanding the instruments and tools used, and being able to anticipate the surgeon's needs. It is also important to have excellent hand-eye coordination and dexterity, as well as the ability to think quickly and react calmly in an emergency situation.

By honing these skills, a Surgical First Assistant can assist the surgeon in operating more efficiently and safely, improving patient outcomes. Furthermore, having the ability to communicate effectively with the surgeon and other members of the surgical team is essential in order to ensure that all procedures are carried out accurately. When these skills are mastered, the Surgical First Assistant will be able to make a positive impact on patient care.

Surgical Technician Lead, Surgical Resident, and Surgical Robotics Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in Surgical First Assisting?
How have you handled high-pressure situations as a Surgical First Assistant?
Describe your experience in preparing the surgical suite for a procedure.
How would you prioritize multiple tasks when assisting the surgeon?
What strategies do you use to ensure patient safety during a procedure?
What experience do you have with using surgical instruments and supplies?
What techniques do you use to build rapport with the surgeon and other medical staff?
How do you stay up to date on surgical procedures and techniques?
Describe how you handle difficult patient or family situations.
What do you believe is the most important quality of a successful Surgical First Assistant?

Common Tools in Industry

Scalpel. A sharp-edged instrument used for cutting through tissue (eg: used to make an incision in the skin).
Retractor. A device used to hold back or separate tissue (eg: used to expose an area of the body during surgery).
Forceps. A tool with two long, slender arms and a pair of jaws at the end (eg: used to grasp or hold tissue in place during surgery).
Sponge Holder. An instrument used to hold sponges in place during surgery (eg: used to control bleeding during a procedure).
Suture Needles. A sharp needle used to stitch fabrics together (eg: used to close a wound after surgery).
Needle Drivers. An instrument used to drive needles for suturing (eg: used to secure sutures in place during a procedure).
Suction Devices. A device used to vacuum up fluids during surgery (eg: used to remove blood from the surgical field).
Scissors. A tool with two blades used for cutting (eg: used to cut through sutures during a procedure).
Hemostats. A device used to clamp off blood vessels (eg: used to stop bleeding during a procedure).
Cautery Tools. An instrument that uses heat or electricity to cut, burn, or seal tissue (eg: used to seal off blood vessels during surgery).

Professional Organizations to Know

Association of Surgical Technologists (AST)
American College of Surgeons (ACS)
American Association of Surgical Physician Assistants (AASPA)
Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons (SLS)
Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN)
International Association of Healthcare Professionals (IAHP)
National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)
American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA)
American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA)
American College of Certified Surgical Assistants (ACCSA)

We also have Surgical Assistant, Surgical Technologist Supervisor, and Surgical Physician Assistant jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Surgeon. A doctor who specializes in performing surgical procedures.
Operating Room Technician. Responsible for preparing and maintaining the operating room before, during, and after surgeries.
Anesthesiologist. A doctor who administers anesthesia during surgery to ensure the patient is comfortable and safe.
Scrub Nurse. Assists the surgeon by passing instruments and supplies during the procedure.
Circulating Nurse. Monitors the patient's vital signs, documents the procedure, and communicates with the scrub nurse and anesthesiologist during the surgery.
Surgical Instruments. Specialized tools and equipment used by the surgical team to perform various procedures.
Surgical First Assistant (SFA). A medical professional who assists the surgeon by providing direct patient care, including positioning the patient and providing retractor, suture, and other instrumentation as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a Surgical First Assistant? A1: A Surgical First Assistant is a healthcare professional specifically trained to assist in complex surgical procedures. They work in collaboration with the surgeon, providing assistance throughout the entire operation. Q2: What qualifications are required for a Surgical First Assistant? A2: A Surgical First Assistant must have a degree in an allied health field, such as nursing, and must complete specialized training in the field of surgical assisting. Certification from the National Surgical Assistant Association is also required. Q3: What are some of the duties of a Surgical First Assistant? A3: The duties of a Surgical First Assistant include providing assistance to the surgeon during the operation, such as retracting tissues and organs, suturing wounds and controlling bleeding. They may also be responsible for preparing the operating room before the procedure and applying dressings after the operation is complete. Q4: How many hours per week does a Surgical First Assistant typically work? A4: A Surgical First Assistant typically works 40 hours per week, but may sometimes work additional hours depending on the needs of the medical facility. Q5: What is the average salary for a Surgical First Assistant? A5: The average salary for a Surgical First Assistant ranges from $50,000 to $90,000, depending on experience and geographical location.