O*NET Career Intelligence

Surgical Assistants

SOC 29-2099.07

Assist surgeons during surgery by performing duties such as tissue retraction, insertion of tubes and intravenous lines, or closure of surgical wounds. Perform preoperative and postoperative duties to facilitate patient care.

Zone 3 Healthcare Practitioners and Technical

Skills

Knowledge

Job Zone

Green

Top Skills 8

Active Listening

4.0

Speaking

3.8

Reading Comprehension

3.6

Critical Thinking

3.6

Monitoring

3.6

Coordination

3.4

Service Orientation

3.4

Complex Problem Solving

3.2

Knowledge Areas 8

Medicine and Dentistry

4.2

Customer and Personal Service

4.0

English Language

3.6

Biology

3.4

Education and Training

3.4

Computers and Electronics

2.9

Public Safety and Security

2.7

Psychology

2.6

Key Tasks

1Verify the identity of patient or operative site.

2Monitor and maintain aseptic technique throughout procedures.

3Cover patients with surgical drapes to create and maintain a sterile operative field.

4Coordinate or participate in the positioning of patients, using body stabilizing equipment or protective padding to provide appropriate exposure for the procedure or to protect against nerve damage or circulation impairment.

5Maintain an unobstructed operative field, using surgical retractors, sponges, or suctioning and irrigating equipment.

Also Known As

Assistant-at-Surgery Certified First Assistant (CFA) Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant (CRNFA) Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) Certified Surgical Technician Clinical Assistant First Assistant Gastrointestinal Technician (GI Technician) Operating Room Assistant