Surgical Assistant/OR First Assistant Job Description Purpose & Scope: The Surgical Assistant renders direct patient care by assisting the surgeon in the surgical treatment of the patient. This is accomplished under direct supervision of the attending surgeon and in accordance with the goals of the Department of Surgery and the philosophy of the Division of Nursing and the policy of the Medical Staff. Interpretive skills, frequent interactive and consultative associations, are inherent in the position. The ability to retrieve, communicate, or otherwise present information in a written, auditory, or visual fashion is essential. The primary method to express or exchange ideas is through the spoken word. Written, telephone, and manual dexterity skills are required for this position. Education: Graduation from an accredited program for First Assistants is required. Experience: Three years of operating room experience is preferred. Certification/Licensure: Licensed Surgical Assistant by the Virginia Department of Health Professions required. Certified in Surgical Assisting preferred. VHC Health™ has provided exceptional medical services to the Washington, DC metropolitan area for more than 75 years. A proud member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, a national network of independent healthcare organizations, the Hospital prides itself on offering the latest technological advancements and medical practices. Virginia Hospital Center was recently designated a Newsweek 2020 Best Maternity Care Hospital, received a 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and once again named a Leapfrog Top Hospital in 2019. Virginia Hospital Center is designated as a Magnet hospital® by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, is a 453-bed not-for-profit teaching facility offering comprehensive healthcare and multiple, independently recognized Centers of Excellence