Surgical Technologist First Assistant (CST-FA)
Saint Louis, Missouri
Mercy Hospital Saint Louis

Job Opportunity: Surgical Tech (CST-FA) - Travel Assignment

Location: Saint Louis, Missouri
Contract Length: 13 weeks

Position Overview

Seeking a Certified Surgical Technologist First Assistant (CST-FA) to work in the Operating Room. The CST-FA performs first assistant duties under surgeon supervision and also functions as a Surgical Technologist as needed. The role involves coordinating surgical instruments, maintaining patient confidentiality, and ensuring adherence to safety and infection control protocols.

Work Schedule

• Shift: Days, Monday to Friday, 6:45 AM – 3:15 PM
• Weekly Hours: 36 guaranteed
• Call: Approximately 1 evening per week and 1 weekend every 4-6 weeks
• Weekend Hours: As required (on-call support varies)

Requirements

• Licensure: Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
• Certifications: BLS and ACLS (American Heart Association only)
• Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience as a CST-FA with General and Orthopedic OR experience
• Preferred: Certification in First Assisting and Neuro OR experience
• Prior Travel Experience: Not specified as required

Unit Information

• 21 Operating Rooms
• Approximately 60 cases per day
• Equipment includes standard OR tools plus 2 XI DaVinci Robots, 1 Rosa, and 3 Stealth navigation systems for Neuro/ENT procedures
• EMR systems: EPIC and Tecsys (supplies)
• Patient Population: Adult, Geriatric, some Pediatrics

Key Responsibilities

• Perform first assistant duties during surgery and assist as Surgical Technologist as needed
• Maintain sterile field and adhere to aseptic technique and infection control policies
• Adhere to instrument and sponge counting policies
• Ensure patient confidentiality and safety
• Assist in positioning and draping patients
• Anticipate surgeon and team needs during procedures
• Perform equipment and instrument checks before procedures
• Participate in quality improvement and documentation activities
• Function as a preceptor in scrub and assistant roles
• Comply with call, backup, and holiday requirements
• Demonstrate knowledge of surgical anatomy, asepsis, and emergency procedures

Safety and Compliance

• Follow all safety, infection control, and patient rights policies
• Proper disposal of sharps and biohazard materials
• Participate in Time Out procedures and maintain communication with surgical team
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

Work Environment and Culture

• Team-focused environment
• Facility provides scrub attire
• Emphasis on flexibility, time management, and effective communication

Additional Notes

• Flu vaccination or approved exemption required for travel assignments from November 1 to April 1 (declinations not accepted)

This position offers an opportunity to work in a high-volume, technologically advanced OR setting with a diverse patient population. Ideal candidates are experienced CST-FAs who thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.