Surgical First Assistant: The Essentials of Practice

A critical examination of an increasingly vital role in surgical practice

Surgical first assistants (SFAs) are registered nurses or operating department practitioners (ODPs) who play a crucial role in the operating theatre during surgical procedures. Under the direct supervision of the operating surgeon, an SFA provides continuous skilled assistance, performing a range of established responsibilities to assist the surgeon predominantly in the intraoperative phase of the patient’s journey, but also in the pre- and post-operative phases. The role affords theatre nurses and ODPs the opportunity to expand their clinical responsibilities and provide assistance for patients undergoing surgery by undertaking post-qualifying education. More recently, an understanding of the knowledge and skills of the SFA role has been embedded into the undergraduate curricula for ODPs.

Surgical First Assistant: The Essentials of Practice provides a comprehensive and critical examination of the knowledge, skills and behaviours that are required by SFAs to ensure patient safety and quality care. Beginning with a historical overview of the SFA role, it proceeds to outline the legal, ethical and professional aspects of the role which allows the practitioner to critically reflect on SFA practice. It also offers an in-depth analysis of the SFA’s responsibilities as defined by the Perioperative Care Collaborative through each phase of the patient’s perioperative journey from pre-operative assessment to post-operative pain management.

Surgical First Assistant readers will also find:

• A text aligned with UK national standards and best practice
• Detailed discussion of topics including pre-operative preparation with the operating theatre, assisting with haemostasis, and many more
• An approach which explores both the technical and non-technical skills required by the SFA

Surgical First Assistant is ideal for registered nurses, ODPs, student and apprentice operating department practitioners.

Julie Quick, MSc, NMP, SCP, RN, is Senior Lecturer in Operating Department Practice at Birmingham City University, Birmingham, UK.

Mark Owen, SFA, ODP, is Senior Lecturer in Operating Department Practice at the University of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, UK.