AST Creating the Surgical Environment

ASSURING HIGHER OR QUALITY AND LOWER CARE COSTS? For CSTs and CSFAs, it’s a matter of principles. Skilled in the principles of asepsis and the practice of sterile technique, Certified Surgical Technologists (CSTs) and Certified Surgical First Assistants (CSFAs) are on the frontlines in today’s optimal surgical environments. The expertise these highly-trained professionals bring to the OR contributes directly to risk reduction, cost curtailment and quality assurance. For health care administrators tasked with finding value-enhancing strategies for the surgical setting, the presence of CSTs and CSFAs is evidence-based medicine at its best. CSTs and CSFAs are integral members of the surgical team who work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, registered nurses and other surgical personnel delivering patient care before, during and after surgery. Certified Surgical Technologist The CST in the scrub role handles the instruments, supplies and equipment necessary during the surgical procedure. Certified Surgical Technologists have an understanding of the procedure being performed, anticipate the needs of the surgeon and have the necessary knowledge and ability to ensure quality patient care during the operative procedure, while monitoring and preserving the sterile field. Circulating Certified Surgical Technologist The CST in the circulating role obtains additional instruments, supplies and equipment necessary while the surgical procedure is in progress. The circulating surgical technologist monitors conditions in the operating room and constantly assesses the needs of the patient and surgical team. Certified Surgical First Assistant Certified Surgical Technologists who have obtained the Certified Surgical First Assistant credential may serve in the role of surgical first assistant, under the direct supervision of the surgeon. As defined by the American College of 1 A S S O C I A T I O N O F S U R G I C A L T E C H N O L O G I S T S