CST III - Surgery

The Certified Scrub Tech III at Mission Regional Medical Center is primarily responsible for preparing sterile supplies and instruments for surgical procedures. This involves maintaining a sterile field during surgeries and providing surgeons with the necessary tools throughout the procedure. Additionally, the CST III demonstrates advanced competency and proficiency in open heart and complex orthopedic surgeries, assuming the primary scrubbing role and other essential responsibilities during the operation.

To be considered for the CST III role at Mission Regional Medical Center, applicants must be graduates of a Certified Surgical Tech training program and possess at least one year of experience in a surgical setting. A Certified Surgical Tech (CST) Certification is required upon hire, along with a current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association. A demonstrated competency in open heart surgery or complex orthopedic procedures is also essential for this role.

While recent graduates are encouraged to apply for positions in surgical technology, the CST III role at Mission Regional Medical Center requires at least one year of experience in a surgical setting. If you are a certified surgical tech with relevant hands-on experience in a clinical environment, this position will allow you to utilize your skills while advancing your career in a supportive environment.

Mission Regional Medical Center is devoted to fostering the professional growth of its staff, including CST III employees. With ample opportunities for continuing education and additional training, Mission Regional Medical Center ensures that employees can stay current with the latest techniques and best practices in surgical care. This environment promotes mastery in their roles and offers pathways for career advancement.

The culture at Mission Regional Medical Center is collaborative and focused on patient-centered care. CST III professionals are valued members of a dedicated surgical team, working closely with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare staff in a supportive and positive environment. Our commitment to compassion and community ensures that everyone feels appreciated and motivated to contribute their best to health care practices.

When answering this question, share specific examples of the complex surgeries where you have acted as a scrub tech, detailing the instruments you managed and your role during the procedure. This will highlight your competency and readiness for the CST III position.

Explain your understanding of sterile techniques, including how you prepare the surgical field, handle instruments, and what protocols you follow to prevent contamination during a procedure. Your focus should be on meticulous attention to detail.

Illustrate a specific case where you encountered a surgical emergency, emphasizing your quick thinking and communication skills. Discuss how you remained composed and effectively supported the surgical team to resolve the situation.

Discuss your organizational skills and how you prioritize the preparation of surgical instruments based on the specific needs of the procedure. Provide an example that demonstrates your ability to multitask effectively in a high-pressure environment.

Share your passion for surgical technology and the satisfaction you derive from being an integral part of a surgical team. Highlight any particular procedures or aspects of patient care that you find most rewarding.

Mention your proactive approach to professional development, such as attending workshops, pursuing certifications, networking with other surgical techs, or following relevant industry publications to stay informed about technological advancements.

Reflect on specific challenges you've faced and discuss how you overcame them. Focus on positive outcomes and what you learned from those experiences that will help you in the CST III role.

Share your strategies for managing stress and staying focused during fast-paced situations, such as prioritizing tasks, effective communication with the team, and maintaining a strong sense of professionalism throughout procedures.

Discuss the essential role of teamwork in the surgical room and how effective collaboration among team members can significantly enhance patient outcomes. Provide examples of how you nurture teamwork in your practice.

Highlight the personal qualities and professional skills that align with the requirements of the CST III position, such as attention to detail, strong communication abilities, and the capacity to handle the demands of the role, reinforcing your enthusiasm for the opportunity.