The surgeon determines the exact position for the best exposure for the surgical procedure, and the surgical assistant carries out this order. The patient’s safety and comfort are important considerations. The surgical assistant will ensure that points of pressure are padded, including elbows, heels, knees, eyes, face, and the axillary region. Surgical assistants also verify that circulation is not impaired, and nerves are protected from damage. Surgical assistants and anesthesia personnel discuss the patient’s temperature and identify the particular methods that will be implemented to maintain the desired temperature. Surgical assistants are knowledgeable about common patient positions as they relate to the surgical procedure and are able to utilize the necessary equipment (fracture tables, head stabilizers, body stabilizers, C-arm extensions, and other equipment as needed) to provide that position. When the procedure has been completed, surgical assistants evaluate the patient for any possible damage resulting from that position, including assessment of the skin. The surgical assistant reports any abnormal condition to the surgeon and may assist with any treatment and documentation. The surgical assistant provides visualization of the operative site by appropriately placing and securing retractors, with or without padding; packing with sponges; digitally manipulating tissue; suctioning, irrigating, or sponging; manipulating suture materials (loops, tags, running sutures); and employing the proper use of body mechanics to prevent obstruction of the surgeon’s view. Surgical assistants utilize appropriate permanent or temporary techniques to help achieve hemostasis by

· Clamping and/or cauterizing vessels or tissue

· Tying and/or ligating clamped vessels or tissue

· Applying hemostatic clips

· Placing local hemostatic agents

· Applying tourniquets

· Applying vessel loops, noncrushing clamps, and direct digital pressure