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Surgical First Assistant Training Program Jobs in Massachusetts

Travel RN First Assist

Pittsfield, MA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

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Travel The RN First Assistant carries out functions that will assist the surgeon in performing a safe surgical procedure with optimum results for the patient. The RN First Assistant practices ...

New England Baptist Hospital in Boston is an orthopedic surgical specialty hospital that does more ... The Patient Care Associate provides a comprehensive, proactive, and "Patients First" experience for ...

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Surgical First Assistant Training Program information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a surgical first assistant training program, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Surgical First Assistant Training Program, you need a solid understanding of anatomy, surgical procedures, and sterile techniques, often backed by prior healthcare experience or certification as a surgical technologist or nurse. Familiarity with operating room instrumentation, suturing techniques, and patient safety protocols is essential, and many programs require or recommend Basic Life Support (BLS) or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, effective support during surgeries and contribute to optimal patient outcomes in high-stakes clinical environments.

What is a surgical first assistant training program?

A Surgical First Assistant Training Program is a specialized educational course designed to prepare healthcare professionals to assist surgeons during operations. The training covers advanced surgical techniques, patient care before, during, and after surgery, as well as sterile procedures and instrumentation. Programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience in the operating room. Graduates are equipped to work alongside surgeons, improving patient outcomes and supporting the surgical team. Completion of an accredited program is often required to sit for certification exams and to work as a Surgical First Assistant.

What is the difference between Surgical First Assistant Training Program vs Surgical Technologist Certification?

AspectSurgical First Assistant Training ProgramSurgical Technologist Certification
CredentialsTypically requires specialized training and certification as a Surgical First AssistantRequires certification as a Surgical Technologist (CST) or equivalent
Work EnvironmentAssists surgeons directly during surgeries in hospitals and surgical centersPrepares operating rooms and assists during surgeries, but does not perform direct surgical assistance
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, surgical centers, and clinics needing surgical assistantsHospitals, outpatient surgical facilities, and clinics for surgical support staff

The Surgical First Assistant Training Program prepares individuals to assist surgeons directly during procedures, requiring specialized training and certification. In contrast, Surgical Technologist Certification focuses on preparing support staff who prepare operating rooms and assist indirectly. Both roles are vital in surgical settings but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What are some typical challenges students face during a surgical first assistant training program, and how can they prepare for them?

Students in a Surgical First Assistant Training Program often encounter challenges such as mastering complex surgical techniques, adapting to the fast-paced operating room environment, and balancing hands-on clinical practice with classroom learning. To prepare, it's helpful to develop strong time management skills, actively seek mentorship from experienced surgical staff, and engage in regular study groups to reinforce learning. Embracing a proactive attitude and being open to feedback can also make the transition smoother and enhance overall competency in the role.

What are popular job titles related to Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Massachusetts?

For Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Surgical First Assistant Training Program jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Surgical First Assistant Training Program job openings:

Physician Assistant, Plastic Surgery

APDerm

Chestnut Hill, MA

$93K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


APDerm rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Physician Assistant (PA) to join our Boston Center for Plastic Surgery in a dynamic dual-role capacity. This is an exceptional opportunity to work directly alongside a prominent, board-certified plastic surgeon in both the operating room and clinic environment. The ideal candidate brings prior OR experience, a commitment to exceptional patient care, and an eagerness to grow their expertise in plastic surgery.

Responsibilities

Operating Room Responsibilities

  • Perform scrub technician duties, including sterile instrument setup, back-table preparation, and maintaining a sterile field throughout procedures
  • Serve as surgical first assistant during plastic surgery cases
  • Assist with tissue handling, retraction, suturing, hemostasis, and wound closure
  • Anticipate surgical steps and proactively support the primary surgeon to ensure efficient case flow
  • Collaborate effectively with the OR team, including surgeon, circulating nurses, anesthesia, and scrub staff
  • Monitor patients during procedures and provide comprehensive post-operative care, recovery instructions, and follow-up support
  • Administer medications and operate medical equipment in accordance with physician orders and established clinical protocols
  • Complete accurate and timely operative documentation and procedure notes
  • Ensure compliance with all OR protocols, sterile technique standards, and safety guidelines

Clinical Responsibilities

  • Conduct comprehensive pre-operative evaluations and prepare patients for upcoming surgical procedures
  • Participate in initial patient consultations under physician supervision
  • Provide post-operative care, wound management, and follow-up assessments
  • Assist with aesthetic treatments including Botox injections and dermal filler procedures
  • Assist with in-office procedures as directed by the supervising surgeon
  • Educate patients on treatment plans, post-procedure care instructions, and expected outcomes
  • Maintain thorough and accurate medical documentation in the electronic health record (EHR)
  • Coordinate care with front office staff, scheduling, and other clinical team members
  • Support patient triage, assist with inventory management, and participate in day-to-day clinical operations as needed
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and hygienic work environment; prepare exam and procedure rooms, set up medical equipment, and decontaminate instruments following each use
  • Participate in on-call coverage as required to support the supervising physician's patient population, including after-hours patient questions, concerns, and urgent post-operative needs
  • Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by the supervising physician; as experience and proficiency grow, the scope of this role may expand to include greater clinical independence and additional areas of responsibility
Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program
  • Minimum of 2 years of clinical experience as a Physician Assistant
  • Current PA-C certification by the NCCPA
  • Valid state PA licensure (or ability to obtain prior to start date)
  • Prior operating room experience as a Physician Assistant, including scrubbing and/or first assisting, is required
  • Strong knowledge of surgical anatomy, sterile technique, and perioperative protocols
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and work in a fast-paced surgical environment

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience in plastic surgery, dermatology, or a related surgical specialty
  • Experience performing or assisting with cosmetic injectables (Botox, fillers)
  • Familiarity with plastic surgery-specific instruments, equipment, and implants
  • Comfort with aesthetic patient consultations and outcomes-focused care

The salary for this role will range from USD $93,000.00 - 126,201.00 based on full-time employment. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including but not limited to years of experience, location, relevant skills, training, education, etc. Certain roles may be eligible for performance-based incentive compensation and/or long-term incentives. APDerm supports your life's needs through an extensive offering comprehensive, competitive and inclusive set of health, financial and other benefits that support your total well-being.

APDerm is proud to be an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action workplace. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, military and veteran status, disability, genetics, or any other category protected by federal law or APDerm policy.

Please email humanresources@apderm.com if you need a disability accommodation for any part of the employment process.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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Pay

Hours and flexibility

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About APDerm

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Outpatient health care

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Acton, MA, US

Year founded

1992