Section 17-8013. SCOPE OF PRACTICE

 

8013.1A surgical assistant shall, in accordance with this chapter and the Act, have the authority to perform the following tasks:

 

(a)Provide local infiltration or the topical application of a local anesthetic and hemostatic agents at the operative site;

 

(b)Incise tissues;

 

(c)Ligate and approximate tissues with sutures and clamps;

 

(d)Apply tourniquets, casts, immobilizers, and surgical dressings;

 

(e)Check the placement and operation of equipment;

 

(f)Assist in moving and positioning the patient;

 

(g)Assist the surgeon in draping the patient;

 

(h)Prepare a patient by cleaning, shaving, and sterilizing the incision area;

 

(i)Retract tissue and expose the operating field area during operative procedures;

 

(j)Place suture ligatures and clamp, tie, and clip blood vessels to control bleeding during surgical entry;

 

(k)Use cautery for hemostasis under direct supervision;

 

(l)Assist in closure of skin and subcutaneous tissue;

 

(m)Assist in the cleanup of the surgical suite; and

 

(n)Check and restock the surgical suite.

 

8013.2A surgical assistant shall not perform the following tasks;

 

(a)Perform any surgical procedure independently;

 

(b)Prescribe any medications or controlled substances; or

 

(c)Write any progress notes or orders on hospitalized patients, except operative notes.

 

source

Final Rulemaking published at 54 DCR 9549 (October 5, 2007).