The Surgical Assistant’s primary responsibilities include performing patient care activities as a member of the surgical team, taking and developing x-ray films, cleaning, packaging, sterilizing, and storing supplies, instruments, and equipment.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

Education/Certification/Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Oral and Maxillofacial surgery experience (preferred)
• Demonstrated understanding of sterilization principles required
• CPR certification required
• NC dental x-ray certification (preferred)
• Oral & Maxillofacial Anesthesia Assisting Program completion

Skills/Abilities:

• Problem solver and self-directed
• High degree of professionalism and professional image
• Strong and effective communication and platform skills
• Positive attitude, change advocate, lead by example, coachable
• Strong interpersonal and relationship building skills
• Independent decision-making skills, sound judgment
• Strong initiative and able to exercise sound judgement

• Supports the philosophy, goals, and objectives of the Practice.
• Supports, and performs according to, approved policies and procedures.
• Supports risk management and participates in programs directed to patient and staff safety.
• Considers patient rights in performance of job duties and responsibilities.
• Contributes to the quality management process; identifies role and contributions upon request.
• Adheres to safety policies and procedures in performing job duties and responsibilities.
• Reports observed or suspected violations, hazards, and noncompliance according to Practice policy.
• Observes safety measures in performance of job duties and responsibilities.
• Responds to emergency situations with competence and composure.
• Communicates effectively with patients, visitors, physicians, and co‑workers.
• Interactions are respectful and courteous.
• Objectively evaluates suggestions, grievances, and processes to identify opportunities to improve performance and quality of care or seeks further guidance, as needed.
• Communicates effectively and professionally using a translator when necessary.
• Documents that information received from the patient is disseminated to the appropriate people or departments.
• Responds in a timely manner to meet the needs of the patient and the physician.
• Documents patient care records and other forms according to Practice policy.
• Communicates information about the patient’s status to others responsible for patient care.
• Accurately comprehends, interprets, and documents verbal orders and directions.
• Performs assisting duties and responsibilities.
• Reviews schedule at least one week in advance and prepares as necessary (make sure implants, abutments, splints, stents, etc. are available at the appropriate office).
• Assists doctors with surgical procedures (extractions, biopsies, implants, bone grafts, etc.); suction, irrigation, pass instruments, cut sutures, etc.
• Performs office procedures as directed (remove surgical splints, fit splints, remove sutures, place packs, etc.).
• Prepares patient and room set-up for appropriate procedure/exam.
• Reviews post-op instructions with surgery patients.
• Reviews charts/paperwork before doctor sees patient; completes appropriate paperwork.
• Helps in workroom and with restocking clinical supplies.
• Utilizes computer system (time clock, reviewing schedules, scheduling appointments, using e-mail, etc.).
• Reports any damaged equipment discovered during routing cleaning or use.
• Complies with all OSHA and office policies and procedures.
• Other duties as directed.