SCOPE OF PRACTICE

Code of Ethics and Scope of Practice

 The Certified Surgical Assistant possesses a working knowledge of operating room procedures with respect to attire, infection control, and is familiar with individual requirements and  recommended practices of compliance. 

The Certified Surgical Assistant must have the ability to anticipate the needs of the surgeon, and other team members, with respect to the requirements of a particular surgical procedure.

The Certified Surgical Assistant must be able to demonstrate and maintain dexterity sufficient to successful completion of his/her assistant duties on each particular procedure.

The Certified Surgical Assistant must maintain a professional attitude with respect to dignity, privacy, and safety of patients.

The Certified Surgical Assistant must possess the ability to only function within the limits of his/her ability, and within the policies of the facility in which they are working.

SCOPE OF PRACTICE

Surgical Assistants assist physicians in surgery and may perform specific significant surgical tasks under “professional supervision”.  (Significant surgical tasks include, but are not limited to:  opening and closing surgical sites, exposure of the surgical site, harvesting grafts, dissecting tissue, removing tissue, implanting devices, altering tissues).

Surgical Assistants may, under “professional supervision”, perform specific significant tasks which include, but are not limited to, applying and removing splints/casts, placing Foley catheters, IV’s, and arterial lines, administering local anesthesia, and other such procedures as requested and necessary.