Current Trends/Nature of the CST Position
Discuss the importance of the ability of the CST to hear activation/warning signals on equipment.
Cautery when activate makes a sound to alert that the pencil/laparoscopic instrument is on and could cause a burn to the patient.
Safety tests are indicated by sounds emitted by equipment.
Warning sounds such as the hour timer on the tourniquet will alter the team when time limits have been reached.
Noise will be emitted when the cautery settings are increased
Describe the difference of valuing your career as a profession not just a job.
Understand the value of the profession and the positive impact that is made on the lives of patients. Willing to give 100% effort in every moment as understand the patient's outcomes are directly impacted by the input provided by the CST. Show up to work for the patients not the paycheck.
What is the difference between empathy and pity?
Empathy is not pity, which is an emotional reaction to someone’s condition.
Empathy is the ability to comprehend the feelings of others, and communicate understanding.
Identify the two types of interviews that an applicant may have when applying for a job opportunity.
Individual and Panel Interview
Prior to listing an individual as a professional reference on your resume what must you obtain first?
Their consent/ permission
Discuss the importance of the ability of the CST to demonstrate the use of positive coping skills under stress.
Identify 4 characteristics of a CST who demonstrates professional behavior.
Continuing education
Being nonjudgmental of patients
Surgical conscience and honesty
Respect for the patient’s decisions
Ability to communicate effectively
Willingness to serve on committees
Consistent attendance and punctuality
Maintaining the patient’s confidentiality
Willingness to learn and cope with change
Identify 3 responsibilities of the CST position that require excellent manual dexterity.
Loading fine suture
Handing instrument efficiently with both hands
Holding a retractor with one hand and handing instruments with the other hand
Organization of the field
Holding a scissor in the palm of the hand and handing instruments with the same hand
Receiving instruments back with one hand and handing the next item up with the other hand
Paying attention to details
What type of communication should be sent following an interview to expresses appreciation for the chance to meet & discuss the job opening?
Thank you letter
What document is an overview/summary of past experiences indicating how you can meet the needs of the employer?
Resume
Provide 3 examples of positive interpersonal skills that should be exhibited by the CST in interactions with patients, staff, and faculty.
Active listening, Respect, Teamwork, Empathy, Eye Contact, Caring and Compassion for patient needs, Authenticity, Detailed and direct communication
What is meant by the "P" prepared in relation to professionalism of the CST?
After graduation the CST continues to study and prepared for their assigned procedures. They research, watch videos, seek input from fellow seasoned employees, and take notes for future similar procedures.
Describe critical thinking and how it applies to the practice of the successful CST.
Prioritize activities- choose problems that can be solved within the time frame
Calmly demonstrate willingness to seek solutions to any and all problems & work with team to choose & implement best solution
Use time wisely & anticipate problems
If you are leaving an organization to pursue a new employment opportunity what is the minimum notice you should give your current employer via a resignation letter?
2 weeks
What document introduces the resume & provides additional details of accomplishments of the applicant?
Cover Letter
Identify 3 locations where a CST may find an employment opportunity as a full time surgical technologist.
Surgical Technologist in Main OR in Large Hospital
Surgical Technologist in Ambulatory Surgery Center
CST in Labor & Delivery Unit
CST in Surgery specialties such as Ortho, Neuro, Cardio, etc.
Private specialty practices-private scrub-employed by surgeon
Organ & tissue procurement technician
What is meant by the "P" proactive in relation to professionalism of the CST?
Proactive means being part of the solution-when challenges are faced these professionals don't just complain they look for solutions and are willing to serve on committees that seek solutions-involves critical thinking and anticipating challenges-considering multiple solutions from multiple viewpoints
Define Surgical Conscience and why it is so important.
Honesty about one’s actions, mistakes, and abilities
Not admitting to an error is a breach of ethics & risks injury to the patient and coworkers
Admitting an error and accepting responsibility are signs of emotional and professional maturity
List 3 ways you should prepare prior to an interview for a desired position.
Dress for success
Practice mock interviews
Review & know your resume
Review qualifications for the specific job
Be positive when referencing past experiences
Arrive before the scheduled time of the interview
Prepare answers about yourself (education, experience, availability)
Learn about the organization & develop ideas about how you can contribute
Prepare questions to ask the interviewer
What document provides the employer with complete, standardized sources of information & once hired, the is placed in personnel file, serving as a legal document & record of important information about the employee?
Job application
Identify 3 opportunities for advancement that may exist for a CST with additional experience and education.
uSales representatives
Management – Sterile Processing/materials management
Hospital Administration
Surgical Technology Education/Instructor
Continuing Education-Physician Assistant, Medical School, Nurse, Certified Surgical First Assistant
What is meant by the "P" punctual in relation to professionalism of the CST?
If you are on time you are late :)
Responsible related to attendance, communicate any absences and take initiative to find coverage/switch shifts when needed
Respect is a form of _______ that requires protection of another’s vulnerabilities
Empathy
Any untruthful information provided on an applicant's job application, resume or cover letter may be grounds for what if the individual is offered employment with the organization?
Immediate dismissal/termination
List 2 items that should not be included on your professional resume.
High School Graduation
Activities from High School
Employment from more than 15 years ago
Exaggeration about skills to make the resume longer-no more than 2 pages in length
Any information that is not factual