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Discussion

Assisting in the OR

I'm seeking feedback on what is done in your institution.........many of our surgeons do not have a PA or Certified First Asst so they rely on our surgery dept to provide 2 scrub personnel (even 3 for lady partsl cases which is another staffing mess). I'm fine w/providing the 2 scrub person(s) when needed but the issue we/I am having is what the role of that person is.

At my institution there are some guidelines on the do's and do not's, however, they are vague enough where you have the usual "grey areas." The biggest question comes up when the scrub person(s) are closing the surgical incision.............is this legal? The only definite answer I've received is that the MD must remain in the department when closing. How does this affect my RN's and their licenses in the OR when the person(s) closing are not certified?

I'd appreciate any feedback or guidance on where I can look for additional information. I did check out AORN and didn't have a lot of luck.

Thank you!

Featured Replies

Only a person who has gone through a RNFA program can close and a PA if they have gone through all the necessary training. The surgeon shouldn't assume just because he is still in the department it is legal. All staff should fear for their license if caught by their BON. Who ever is telling you that it is OK, is WRONG, WRONG!!! Every state has their scope of practice and every state that has RNFAs also have their scope of practice. AORN has the info and will help you if you contact the right person. Your BON also will help and put your managment in it's place regarding the do's and don'ts. Also there are NO GRAY AREAS. Good luck

I used to first assist when i was a surgical tech. However when i did i was hired by the hospital as a first assist and surgical tech. I had two job discriptions. (I was trained in the military. And after the military i was hired by a private practice as a surgical assistant.) however when i was assisting i had to bill for myself. The hospital did not pay me for it. So if you are first assisting and it is not in your job discription, YOU SHOULD NOT BE DOING IT. can you say Liability........anyone???

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