38-3511. Licensed surgical first assistant; activities authorized.

156 words·~1 min read·/ne/chapter-38/38-3511

A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.

A licensed surgical first assistant may engage in the practice of surgical assisting, including, but not limited to, the following:

(1)Assisting in the intraoperative care of a surgical patient;

(2)Positioning the patient;

(3)Preparing and draping the patient for the surgical procedure;

(4)Providing visualization of the operative site;

(5)Assisting with hemostasis;

(6)Assisting with closure of body planes, including the following:

(a)Inserting running or interrupted subcutaneous sutures with absorbable or nonabsorbable material;

(b)Utilizing subcuticular closure technique with or without adhesive skin closure strips; and

(c)Closing skin with method indicated by surgeon, including, but not limited to, suture and staples;

(7)Applying appropriate wound dressings;

(8)Providing assistance in securing drainage systems to tissue;

(9)Preparing specimens, such as grafts; and

(10)Performing other tasks during a surgical procedure delegated by and under the personal supervision of a physician appropriate to the level of competence of the surgical first assistant.