AST Guideline - Perioperative Role and Duties of the Surgical Technologist During Robotic Surgical Procedures

4 (6) The Robotics Team Leader (see Standard of Practice II) should document all training and confirm the competencies of the CST. See Appendix A for a sample competency checklist. a. The Robotics Team Leader is responsible for documenting the training completed by CST employees including visual confirmation of the competencies of the CSTs who are a member of the robotic team. b. The Robotics Team Leader should document additional continuing education the CST employees complete regarding robotic surgery to include training on new robotic components, instrumentation, and accessories the HDO purchased, and surgical procedures. 2. Upon completion of training and gaining experience working with the team on robotic surgical procedures, the CST can contribute to the training of other surgical staff members. Guideline II It is recommended that the HDO designate an individual in the surgery department as the Robotics Team Leader. 1. The Robotics Team Leader should be an individual that has extensive robotic surgical experience who serves as the coordinator of the robotic services program in the surgery department. 12 A. The CST, with training and experience, can serve as the Robotics Team Leader. (1) It is recommended the HDO appoint a Robotics Team Leader when the HDO is establishing a new robotics surgical program who can serve as the lead person in coordinating all aspects of the program including scheduling robotic procedures; purchasing new and replacement accessories and instruments; confirm availability of accessories and instruments for robotic procedures; provides and/or arranges training and continuing education. 12 See Appendix B for a comprehensive list of recommended responsibilities. (2) The Team Leader should be an active member of the robotic team participating in robotic procedures who can be relied upon to provide expert guidance, suggestions and recommendations to the team during the procedure. Guideline III The surgery department should review the policies and procedures (P&P) regarding robotic surgery on an annual basis. 1. The surgery department should include members of the surgical team and administration when reviewing the P&Ps, including CSTs, surgeons, RNs, risk management, and infection control officer. A. The surgery department should document when the P&Ps were reviewed, revision completed, and who participated in the review process. 2. CSTs should be familiar with the P&Ps for robotic surgery. The orientation of new employees should include reviewing the P&Ps.