As used in this subchapter:
(1) “Surgical technologist” means an individual who performs the skills and techniques of surgical technology under the direction and supervision of a licensed practitioner other than in the course of practicing as a licensed healthcare professional; and
(2) “Surgical technology” means surgical patient care that includes without limitation:
(A) Preparing an operating room and a sterile field for surgical procedures by ensuring that surgical equipment is assembled and functioning properly and safely;
(B) Preparing sterile supplies, instruments, and equipment using sterile technique;
(C) Performing tasks in a sterile field, including:
(i) Maintaining asepsis and a sterile operating field;
(ii) Passing supplies, equipment, or instruments according to the needs of the surgical team;
(iii) Sponging or suctioning an operative site;
(iv) Preparing and cutting suture material;
(v) Providing irrigation solutions to the supervising physician and irrigating an operative site;
(vi) Providing drugs within the sterile field for administration by the supervising physician;
(vii) Handling specimens;
(viii) Holding retractors and other instruments;
(ix) Applying electrocautery to clamps on blood vessels;
(x) Connecting drains to a suction apparatus;
(xi) Applying dressings to closed wounds; and
(xii) Performing counts of supplies such as sponges, needles, and instruments with the registered nurse circulator; and
(D) The practice of surgical technology is a separate and distinct healthcare profession that does not include the practice of surgical assisting as performed by physician assistants, surgical assistants, or first assistants.
Structure Arkansas Code