8013. SCOPE OF PRACTICE

8013 SCOPE OF PRACTICE 8013.1 A 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. 8013.2 A 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).