Certified Surgical First Assistant

STEPHEN P. RAMIREZ, CSFA

***** * ******* ***, **** C #1233, Aurora, CO. 80013 ******@***.*** 720-***-**** PROFILE OVERVIEW

Citizenship: U.S.

Veteran’s Preference: Yes, 10-point preference - Compensable service connected disability of 30% or more (CPS) Federal Experience: US Navy

Job Type: Permanent

Work Schedule: Full-time

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS

Seasoned Certified Surgical First Assistant and decorated military veteran with a distinguished career providing essential support in diverse surgical settings. Leveraging extensive experience in surgical procedures, possesses comprehensive expertise in sterile techniques, surgical instrumentation, and patient care protocols. Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in preoperative preparation, intraoperative assistance, and postoperative care, ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout every surgical intervention. Thrives under pressure, maintaining a calm and controlled demeanor to guide surgical teams toward optimal patient outcomes. Recognizes the gravity of each moment in the operating room, remaining vigilant and focused, dedicated to excellence. Adept at fostering effective collaboration with surgical teams and healthcare professionals, upholding the highest standards of quality and professionalism. Committed to continuous learning and professional development, poised to significantly contribute to the success of any surgical team and make a lasting impact in the healthcare field. Areas of Expertise:

Surgical Procedures Sterile Technique Surgical Instruments Patient Care Surgical Team Preoperative Preparation Postoperative Care Intraoperative Assistance Anatomy and Physiology Surgical Equipment Wound Closure Suture Techniques Patient Safety Leadership Surgical Site Infection Prevention HIPAA Compliance Medical Terminology Problem Solving Attention to Detail Decision Making PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Ramirez First Assisting - Aurora, CO August 2003 – Current Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) Hours Per Week: 40+ Hours, Full-time Duties, Accomplishments and Related Skills:

• Independently provide expert support as a Certified Surgical First Assistant, offering expert support in Orthopedics, Orthopedic Trauma, and Neurosurgery across multiple hospitals and facilities in the Denver metro area.

• Assume leadership responsibilities as the primary assistant to surgeons, effectively managing surgical teams to ensure efficient and effective patient care delivery in the surgeon's absence.

• Oversee comprehensive pre-operative preparations, meticulously organizing surgical rooms, coordinating staff, equipment, supplies, vendor interactions, and anesthesia services to optimize workflow and maintain high standards of patient safety.

• Demonstrate a deep understanding of each team member's role, fostering smooth coordination and task execution to enhance overall surgical team performance and patient outcomes.

• Proficiently handle patient positioning, procedure initiation, exposure assistance, and hemostasis, ensuring precise execution throughout each surgical intervention.

• Skillfully manage wound closure, dressing application, and cast placement, prioritizing patient comfort and safety throughout the post-operative phase.

• Ensure seamless patient transitions from the operating room to the recovery room, collaborating closely with OR nurses and anesthesia providers to maintain continuity of care.

• Verify and review post-operative X-rays as needed, adhering to established protocols and contributing to the ongoing evaluation and improvement of patient care practices.

• Collaborate closely with surgical teams to anticipate and fulfill supply needs for upcoming procedures, ensuring all necessary equipment and instruments are readily available to facilitate smooth surgical workflows.

• Maintain proficiency in specialized surgical equipment and technology, staying up-to-date with advancements in surgical techniques and practices to provide the highest level of patient care. Rocky Mt Surgical Assistants (RMSA) - Denver Metro Area, CO April 2018 – December 2019 Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) Hours Per Week: 40+ Hours, Full-time Duties, Accomplishments and Related Skills:

• Provided expert assistance as a Certified Surgical First Assistant to the Surgeons of CBSI through Rocky Mt Surgical Assistants

(RMSA) in the Denver Metro Area, specializing in Neurological Surgeries.

• Collaborated closely with surgical teams to ensure optimal patient outcomes, demonstrating proficiency in assisting with a variety of neurosurgical procedures.

• Engaged in on-call duties, maintaining readiness to respond to emergent surgical needs and providing timely assistance to support efficient patient care delivery.

• Demonstrated meticulous attention to detail and adherence to surgical protocols, contributing to the overall success and safety of neurosurgical interventions.

• Played a pivotal role in maintaining a sterile surgical environment, assisting with instrument sterilization, equipment setup, and surgical site preparation.

• Actively participated in surgical team debriefings, contributing insights and feedback to enhance procedural efficiency and patient care practices.

• Utilized strong communication skills to liaise effectively with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, fostering a collaborative and cohesive surgical team environment. Dry Creek Surgical Center - Englewood, CO June 2017 – April 2018 CSFA, Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), Director of Materials Management Hours Per Week: 40+ Hours, Full-time Duties, Accomplishments and Related Skills:

• Orchestrated the efficient reordering and management of surgical supplies and equipment, optimizing inventory levels to support uninterrupted surgical services and minimize costs.

• Applied expertise as a CSFA and CST to scrub into surgical procedures across multiple specialties, providing skilled assistance to surgeons and maintaining strict adherence to sterile technique protocols.

• Played a key leadership role as the Director of Materials Management, overseeing procurement processes, vendor relationships, and inventory control initiatives to streamline operations and enhance resource utilization.

• Collaborated closely with surgical teams to anticipate and fulfill supply needs for upcoming procedures, ensuring all necessary equipment and instruments were readily available to facilitate smooth surgical workflows.

• Demonstrated versatility by seamlessly transitioning between responsibilities, balancing administrative duties with hands-on clinical support to meet the dynamic needs of the surgical center.

• Implemented inventory management best practices and quality assurance measures to uphold regulatory compliance standards and optimize resource allocation within the surgical center. Crozer Keystone Health System - Chester, PA June 2016 – November 2016 Traveling CSFA Hours Per Week: 40+ Hours, Full-time Duties, Accomplishments and Related Skills:

• Engaged in a 7-month contract as a Traveling CSFA, providing expert assistance to surgeons across diverse surgical specialties.

• Specialized in assisting with Neurological surgeries, Orthopedics, and Trauma Orthopedics, while also supporting surgical teams in various other specialties.

• Maintained a full-time schedule, including participation in on-call duties, ensuring responsive support for surgical procedures and emergencies.

• Demonstrated proficiency in sterile technique, surgical instrumentation, and patient positioning, contributing to the successful outcomes of complex surgical interventions.

• Adapted quickly to new healthcare environments and surgical teams, fostering collaborative relationships and delivering high-quality patient care in accordance with established protocols and standards. The Colorado Chiari Institute, Dr. John Oro - Aurora, CO August 2012 – 2018 Surgical First Assistant Hours Per Week: 40+ Hours, Full-time Duties, Accomplishments and Related Skills:

• Supported Dr. John Oro as a Surgical First Assistant at The Colorado Chiari Institute, specializing in the treatment of Chiari I Malformation and Base Skull surgeries.

• Provided expert assistance in a variety of Neurological surgeries, including Tethered Spinal Cords, Spinal & Cervical Fusions, and Brain Tumors, ensuring smooth surgical procedures and optimal patient outcomes.

• Collaborated closely with surgical teams to anticipate needs, prepare surgical equipment, and maintain a sterile operating environment, fostering efficiency and safety throughout procedures.

• Demonstrated exceptional communication and teamwork skills, facilitating effective coordination among medical staff and contributing to a positive surgical experience for patients under Dr. Oro's care.

• Consistently upheld high standards of professionalism and clinical excellence, earning recognition for dedication, reliability, and commitment to delivering exceptional patient care. Orthopedic Physicians of CO July 2005 – 2012

Certified First Assistant Hours Per Week: 40+ Hours, Full-time Duties, Accomplishments and Related Skills:

• Served as a Certified First Assistant, providing invaluable support to orthopedic surgeons during surgical procedures.

• Played a pivotal role in orthopedic surgeries, contributing to the successful outcomes of procedures such as joint replacements, fracture repairs, and arthroscopic surgeries.

• Actively participated in on-call duties, demonstrating readiness to assist surgical teams during emergent situations and ensuring continuous patient care.

• Operated both independently and as an integral member of the surgical team, showcasing adaptability and versatility in various surgical settings.

• Collaborated effectively with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care, maintain a sterile surgical environment, and optimize procedural efficiency. Surgical Associated Service - Denver, CO January 2003 – August 2003 Agency CST/CFA SAS Hours Per Week: 40+ Hours, Full-time Duties, Accomplishments and Related Skills:

• Functioned as an Agency CST/CFA, fulfilling staffing requirements across multiple hospitals in the Denver metro area.

• Demonstrated versatility by seamlessly transitioning between different healthcare facilities, providing essential surgical support, including scrubbing into procedures and assisting in various surgical services.

• Engaged in on-call duties, ensuring prompt availability to meet the dynamic needs of surgical teams and maintain uninterrupted patient care during emergent situations.

• Exhibited adaptability and quick learning in unfamiliar environments, effectively integrating into diverse surgical teams and contributing to efficient and high-quality patient care delivery.

• Collaborated closely with healthcare professionals to uphold stringent sterile technique protocols, facilitate surgical procedures, and ensure the safety and well-being of patients throughout their surgical experience. Parkview Regional Hospital - Mexia, Texas October 1999 – August 2002 Orthopedic Coordinator Hours Per Week: 40+ Hours, Full-time Duties, Accomplishments and Related Skills:

• Spearheaded the development of an Orthopedic Surgical program, overseeing all aspects of program implementation and management.

• Demonstrated comprehensive leadership by managing all aspects of the orthopedic program, including assisting physicians in surgery, overseeing central sterile supplies, evaluating and procuring orthopedic equipment, and developing specialized surgical trays.

• Conducted thorough training sessions for OR personnel on orthopedic surgical scrub procedures and practices, ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulatory requirements while fostering a culture of excellence and safety.

• Cultivated strong vendor relationships and negotiated contracts to optimize procurement processes, streamline operations, and maintain cost-effective supply chains.

• Maintained strict compliance with regulatory agencies and upheld JCAHO standards, implementing rigorous quality control measures and facilitating continuous improvement initiatives to enhance patient care outcomes.

• Demonstrated versatility by scrubbing into surgical procedures across multiple specialties, including Orthopedic, General, Vascular, OB/GYN, Urology, and Endoscopy, while also participating in on-call duties to support surgical teams during emergent situations. Sierra Medical Center - El Paso, Texas January 1999 – August 1999 Sterile Processing Supervisor Hours Per Week: 40+ Hours, Full-time Duties, Accomplishments and Related Skills:

• Oversaw a team of up to 9 personnel, overseeing hiring, training, scheduling, and supervision responsibilities.

• Demonstrated effective leadership and organizational skills in managing personnel and operations within the sterile processing department, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and promoting a culture of excellence and efficiency.

• Implemented comprehensive training programs to ensure staff proficiency in sterile processing procedures, instrument sterilization techniques, and infection control protocols, contributing to the delivery of high-quality patient care services.

• Developed and maintained efficient scheduling practices to optimize staff allocation and workflow management, facilitating the timely processing and delivery of sterile instruments and equipment to support surgical procedures and patient care activities.

• Fostered a collaborative and supportive work environment by providing ongoing feedback, coaching, and mentorship to staff, enhancing performance, fostering professional growth, and maintaining employee morale and engagement. MILITARY EXPERIENCE

Hospital Corpsman, Field Medic, Operating Room Surgical Technician, Operating Room Instructor 1986 - 1990 United States Navy

Duties, Accomplishments and Related Skills:

• Played a pivotal role as a Hospital Corpsman, Field Medic, Operating Room Surgical Technician, and Operating Room Instructor in the United States Navy, actively participating in Desert Shield operations.

• Applied advanced medical skills and knowledge to provide critical care in diverse settings, from combat zones to medical facilities, ensuring the well-being of military personnel and contributing to mission success.

• Demonstrated exceptional versatility by seamlessly transitioning between roles, from delivering frontline medical care in field environments to assisting in complex surgical procedures in operating rooms.

• Exhibited strong leadership qualities as an Operating Room Instructor, guiding and mentoring medical personnel to achieve proficiency in surgical techniques, safety protocols, and patient care practices.

• Received commendations for outstanding performance and dedication to duty during Desert Shield, reflecting a commitment to excellence and a willingness to go above and beyond in service to the nation.

• Collaborated effectively with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate medical support operations, maintain readiness for deployment, and uphold the highest standards of healthcare delivery in challenging and dynamic environments. CERTIFICATIONS

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) Basic Life Support (BLS) Certified

National Provider Identifier

Colorado Medical License Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) Malpractice Insurance

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