A Surgical Assistant begins by discussing the surgical procedure with the surgeon, reviewing operative consent and exposure methods. They coordinate patient positioning using stabilizing equipment and protective padding, then maintain aseptic technique throughout the operation. During surgery, they pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon, assist with insertion and positioning of drainage systems, and help team members with gowning and gloving. They monitor the patient's condition, assess skin integrity post-procedure, and operate sterilizing devices to maintain equipment safety.
Individuals who excel in this role demonstrate exceptional dependability and attention to detail, as patient safety depends on their precision and vigilance. They possess strong arm-hand steadiness and finger dexterity for delicate surgical tasks, combined with excellent oral comprehension to follow complex medical instructions quickly. Those who thrive are realistic and conventional in their approach, preferring structured environments with clear protocols, while maintaining the social awareness needed to collaborate effectively with surgical teams under intense pressure.
This role has low automation risk due to the critical need for human judgment, manual dexterity, and real-time decision-making during surgery. While some monitoring processes and equipment operation may become more automated, the core activities of assisting surgeons, maintaining sterile technique, and providing direct patient care require human expertise that cannot be easily replicated by technology.
Postings appear within hours of going live on the source ATS. No aggregator lag. Direct from source.
| TERM | COUNT | FREQ | BAR | SOURCE ATTRIBUTION |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tendency | 42 | 0.0142 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| equipment | 40 | 0.0136 | onet dimensi 57% dwas 20% | |
| surgical | 40 | 0.0136 | inference 45% wikipedia 40% | |
| others | 39 | 0.0132 | onet dimensi 97% wikipedia 3% | |
| principles | 18 | 0.0061 | onet dimensi 89% wikipedia 11% | |
| body | 16 | 0.0054 | onet dimensi 62% onet tasks 19% | |
| medical | 16 | 0.0054 | dwas 56% inference 25% | |
| procedures | 15 | 0.0051 | onet dimensi 53% inference 20% | |
| patient | 15 | 0.0051 | onet tasks 53% inference 27% | |
| control | 15 | 0.0051 | onet dimensi 80% dwas 13% | |
| patients | 13 | 0.0044 | dwas 62% onet tasks 23% | |
| techniques | 13 | 0.0044 | onet dimensi 77% onet tasks 8% | |
| operations | 13 | 0.0044 | onet dimensi 46% wikipedia 38% | |
| includes | 12 | 0.0041 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| objects | 12 | 0.0041 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| healthcare | 12 | 0.0041 | inference 50% dwas 42% | |
| operative | 11 | 0.0037 | onet tasks 64% dwas 27% | |
| materials | 11 | 0.0037 | onet dimensi 91% onet tasks 9% | |
| ideas | 11 | 0.0037 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| activities | 11 | 0.0037 | onet dimensi 82% dwas 9% | |
| assistant | 11 | 0.0037 | wikipedia 73% inference 27% | |
| surgeon | 10 | 0.0034 | wikipedia 50% onet tasks 30% | |
| operate | 10 | 0.0034 | dwas 50% onet dimensi 30% | |
| sterile | 10 | 0.0034 | onet tasks 40% dwas 30% | |
| quickly | 10 | 0.0034 | onet dimensi 90% inference 10% | |
| needs | 9 | 0.0031 | onet dimensi 89% onet tasks 11% | |
| devices | 9 | 0.0031 | onet dimensi 56% onet tasks 22% | |
| instruments | 9 | 0.0031 | dwas 44% onet tasks 33% | |
| surgery | 9 | 0.0031 | dwas 33% wikipedia 33% | |
| events | 9 | 0.0031 | onet dimensi 89% onet tasks 11% |
Provenance Window — Full Source Record · 29-9093.00 · Surgical Assistants 7 source blocks · click to expand
[Core] [78% incumbents] Monitor and maintain aseptic technique throughout procedures. DWAs: Maintain sterile operative fields. [Core] [78% incumbents] Coordinate or participate in the positioning of patients, using body stabilizing equipment or protective padding to provide appropriate exposure for the procedure or to protect against nerve damage or circulation impairment. DWAs: Protect patients or staff members using safety equipment. | Position patients for treatment or examination. [Core] [78% incumbents] Discuss with surgeon the nature of the surgical procedure, including operative consent, methods of operative exposure, diagnostic or laboratory data, or patient-advanced directives or other needs. DWAs: Collaborate with healthcare professionals to plan or provide treatment. [Core] [78% incumbents] Assess skin integrity or other body conditions upon completion of the procedure to determine if damage has occurred from body positioning. DWAs: Monitor patient progress or responses to treatments. | Monitor patients following surgeries or other treatments. | Assess skin or hair conditions. [Core] [78% incumbents] Operate sterilizing devices. DWAs: Sterilize medical equipment or instruments. [Core] [78% incumbents] Pass instruments or supplies to surgeon during procedure. DWAs: Assist healthcare practitioners during surgery. [Core] [78% incumbents] Assist in the insertion, positioning, or suturing of closed-wound drainage systems. DWAs: Assist healthcare practitioners during surgery. [Core] [78% incumbents] Assist members of surgical team with gowning or gloving. DWAs: Assist healthcare practitioners during surgery. | Maintain sterile operative fields. [Core] [78% incumbents] Gather, arrange, or assemble instruments or supplies. DWAs: Prepare medical supplies or equipment for use. [Core] [78% incumbents] Coordinate with anesthesia personnel to maintain patient temperature. DWAs: Collaborate with healthcare professionals to plan or provide treatment. [Core] [78% incumbents] Assist in applying casts, splints, braces, or similar devices. DWAs: Apply bandages, dressings, or splints. [Supplemental] [78% incumbents] Remove patient hair or disinfect incision sites to prepare patient for surgery. DWAs: Prepare patients physically for medical procedures. [Supplemental] [78% incumbents] Incise tissue layers in lower extremities to harvest veins. DWAs: Operate on patients to treat conditions. [Supplemental] [78% incumbents] Postoperatively inject a subcutaneous local anesthetic agent to reduce pain. DWAs: Administer anesthetics or sedatives to control pain. | Administer intravenous medications. [Supplemental] [78% incumbents] Insert or remove urinary bladder catheters. DWAs: Administer basic health care or medical treatments. [Supplemental] [78% incumbents] Assist in volume replacement or autotransfusion techniques. DWAs: Administer blood or other fluids intravenously. [Core] [77% incumbents] Verify the identity of patient or operative site. DWAs: Verify accuracy of patient information. [Core] [77% incumbents] Prepare and apply sterile wound dressings. DWAs: Apply bandages, dressings, or splints. | Treat acute illnesses, infections, or injuries. [Core] [77% incumbents] Apply sutures, staples, clips, or other materials to close skin, facia, or subcutaneous wound layers. DWAs: Operate on patients to treat conditions. [Core] [77% incumbents] Clamp, ligate, or cauterize blood vessels to control bleeding during surgical entry, using hemostatic clamps, suture ligatures, or electrocautery equipment. DWAs: Operate diagnostic or therapeutic medical instruments or equipment. | Operate on patients to treat conditions. [Core] [77% incumbents] Assist with patient resuscitation during cardiac arrest or other life-threatening events. DWAs: Implement advanced life support techniques. [Core] [77% incumbents] Obtain or inspect sterile or non-sterile surgical equipment, instruments, or supplies. DWAs: Examine medical instruments or equipment to ensure proper operation. [Core] [77% incumbents] Adjust and maintain operating room temperature, humidity, or lighting, according to surgeon's specifications. DWAs: Adjust settings or positions of medical equipment. | Adjust building climate control systems. [Core] [77% incumbents] Transport patients to operating room. DWAs: Move patients to or from treatment areas. [Core] [76% incumbents] Cover patients with surgical drapes to create and maintain a sterile operative field. DWAs: Maintain sterile operative fields. [Core] [76% incumbents] Maintain an unobstructed operative field, using surgical retractors, sponges, or suctioning and irrigating equipment. DWAs: Operate diagnostic or therapeutic medical instruments or equipment. [Core] [76% incumbents] Determine availability of necessary equipment or supplies for operative procedures. DWAs: Maintain inventory of medical supplies or equipment. [Core] [76% incumbents] Monitor patient intra-operative status, including patient position, vital signs, or volume and color of blood. DWAs: Monitor patient conditions during treatments, procedures, or activities.
--- SKILLS --- Active Listening (imp:4.00 lvl:3.88) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand Speaking (imp:3.75 lvl:3.88) — Talking to others to convey information effectively. Reading Comprehension (imp:3.62 lvl:4.00) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents. Critical Thinking (imp:3.62 lvl:3.50) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ Monitoring (imp:3.62 lvl:3.50) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization Writing (imp:3.12 lvl:3.38) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc Learning Strategies (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo Active Learning (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr Science (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems. Mathematics (imp:2.50 lvl:2.62) — Using mathematics to solve problems. --- KNOWLEDGE --- Medicine and Dentistry (imp:4.22 lvl:5.30) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i Customer and Personal Service (imp:3.97 lvl:4.75) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic English Language (imp:3.59 lvl:3.39) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea Biology (imp:3.38 lvl:3.60) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd Education and Training (imp:3.36 lvl:4.06) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching Computers and Electronics (imp:2.90 lvl:3.33) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput Public Safety and Security (imp:2.68 lvl:2.43) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote Psychology (imp:2.58 lvl:3.46) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, Therapy and Counseling (imp:2.56 lvl:2.85) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r Mechanical (imp:2.55 lvl:2.63) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main Mathematics (imp:2.49 lvl:2.77) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl Administration and Management (imp:2.48 lvl:2.62) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, Chemistry (imp:2.38 lvl:2.79) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a Communications and Media (imp:2.16 lvl:2.11) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m Production and Processing (imp:2.14 lvl:1.58) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot Law and Government (imp:2.10 lvl:1.45) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat Administrative (imp:2.09 lvl:1.49) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce Engineering and Technology (imp:2.08 lvl:1.52) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th Sociology and Anthropology (imp:2.02 lvl:1.76) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human Physics (imp:1.99 lvl:1.78) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, Transportation (imp:1.92 lvl:1.23) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea Telecommunications (imp:1.86 lvl:0.98) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te Design (imp:1.79 lvl:1.19) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.77 lvl:1.61) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their Personnel and Human Resources (imp:1.73 lvl:1.19) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra Foreign Language (imp:1.70 lvl:1.17) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu Building and Construction (imp:1.48 lvl:0.92) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r Sales and Marketing (imp:1.43 lvl:0.79) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products History and Archeology (imp:1.35 lvl:0.72) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi Economics and Accounting (imp:1.32) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar Geography (imp:1.32 lvl:0.81) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an Fine Arts (imp:1.09) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform Food Production (imp:1.08) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food --- ABILITIES --- Oral Comprehension (imp:4.12 lvl:4.00) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold Finger Dexterity (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot Near Vision (imp:4.00 lvl:4.25) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer). Oral Expression (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no Speech Clarity (imp:3.88 lvl:3.75) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you. Written Comprehension (imp:3.75 lvl:3.75) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. Visual Color Discrimination (imp:3.75 lvl:3.75) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c Speech Recognition (imp:3.75 lvl:3.50) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person. Information Ordering (imp:3.62 lvl:3.50) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according Control Precision (imp:3.62 lvl:3.62) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.50 lvl:3.62) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that Inductive Reasoning (imp:3.50 lvl:3.62) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion Selective Attention (imp:3.50 lvl:3.50) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac Manual Dexterity (imp:3.50 lvl:3.62) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your Perceptual Speed (imp:3.38 lvl:3.50) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among Multilimb Coordination (imp:3.38 lvl:3.25) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or Written Expression (imp:3.25 lvl:3.50) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under Flexibility of Closure (imp:3.25 lvl:3.38) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so Hearing Sensitivity (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch Category Flexibility (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping Visualization (imp:3.12 lvl:3.25) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when Reaction Time (imp:3.12 lvl:3.25) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou Trunk Strength (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the Auditory Attention (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra Memorization (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced Speed of Closure (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea Time Sharing (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and Static Strength (imp:3.00 lvl:3.25) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects. Far Vision (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — The ability to see details at a distance. Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas Originality (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa Extent Flexibility (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs. Number Facility (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly. Depth Perception (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you Explosive Strength (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping Stamina (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.50 lvl:2.50) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob Dynamic Strength (imp:2.50 lvl:2.62) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv Gross Body Coordination (imp:2.50 lvl:2.25) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:2.38 lvl:2.62) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta Rate Control (imp:2.25 lvl:2.00) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an Response Orientation (imp:2.00) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o Speed of Limb Movement (imp:1.88 lvl:1.50) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs. Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.88 lvl:1.50) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting. Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.25 lvl:0.38) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo Sound Localization (imp:1.25 lvl:0.38) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated. Spatial Orientation (imp:1.12 lvl:0.25) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher Night Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see under low-light conditions. Peripheral Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar --- WORK ACTIVITIES --- Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:4.97 lvl:6.41) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:4.61 lvl:5.71) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:4.54 lvl:5.25) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:4.52 lvl:5.84) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, Getting Information (imp:4.47 lvl:4.44) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:4.40 lvl:5.02) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:4.40 lvl:5.39) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:4.33 lvl:5.08) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o Performing General Physical Activities (imp:4.33 lvl:4.88) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co Handling and Moving Objects (imp:4.33 lvl:5.80) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:4.27 lvl:5.49) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:4.13 lvl:4.64) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.90 lvl:4.75) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:3.82 lvl:4.41) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:3.82 lvl:4.70) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.75 lvl:4.51) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people. Documenting/Recording Information (imp:3.74 lvl:4.00) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte Processing Information (imp:3.67 lvl:4.32) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.61 lvl:4.43) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.58 lvl:3.77) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used. Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:3.54 lvl:3.75) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc Working with Computers (imp:3.53 lvl:3.09) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra Developing and Building Teams (imp:3.40 lvl:3.29) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:3.37 lvl:3.41) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, Thinking Creatively (imp:3.35 lvl:3.86) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste Coaching and Developing Others (imp:3.35 lvl:3.29) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw Analyzing Data or Information (imp:3.31 lvl:3.75) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:3.26 lvl:3.55) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:3.24 lvl:3.15) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:3.14 lvl:3.13) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:3.00 lvl:3.45) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:3.00 lvl:3.63) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks. Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:2.95 lvl:2.95) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others. Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:2.69 lvl:2.65) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money. Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.60 lvl:2.34) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.54 lvl:2.42) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:2.47 lvl:2.14) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:2.38 lvl:1.76) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:2.31 lvl:2.18) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.24 lvl:2.13) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t Staffing Organizational Units (imp:1.90 lvl:1.33) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ --- WORK STYLES --- Dependability (imp:8.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o Attention to Detail (imp:7.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work. Integrity (imp:6.00) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work. Cautiousness (imp:5.00) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related Cooperation (imp:4.00) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work. Attention to Detail (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work. Self-Control (imp:3.00) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res Dependability (imp:2.93) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o Cautiousness (imp:2.74) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related Cooperation (imp:2.64) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work. Stress Tolerance (imp:2.55) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work. Self-Control (imp:2.50) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res Integrity (imp:2.32) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work. Perseverance (imp:2.04) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in Stress Tolerance (imp:2.00) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work. Achievement Orientation (imp:1.63) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, Adaptability (imp:1.54) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas Sincerity (imp:1.49) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou Self-Confidence (imp:1.32) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control Humility (imp:1.12) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work. Perseverance (imp:1.00) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in Social Orientation (imp:0.99) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work. Optimism (imp:0.93) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un Initiative (imp:0.85) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may Intellectual Curiosity (imp:0.84) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep Empathy (imp:0.82) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work. Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work. Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work. Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work. Innovation (imp:-0.26) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:-0.27) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work. Leadership Orientation (imp:-0.30) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work. --- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS --- Coordination (imp:3.38 lvl:3.25) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions. Service Orientation (imp:3.38 lvl:3.25) — Actively looking for ways to help people. Complex Problem Solving (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev Operations Monitoring (imp:3.25 lvl:3.38) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr Social Perceptiveness (imp:3.12 lvl:3.38) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do. Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m Operation and Control (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems. Time Management (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Managing one's own time and the time of others. Persuasion (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior. Negotiation (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences. Quality Control Analysis (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate Systems Analysis (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, Instructing (imp:2.62 lvl:2.88) — Teaching others how to do something. Systems Evaluation (imp:2.62 lvl:2.75) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best Troubleshooting (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it. Management of Material Resources (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.88 lvl:1.25) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the Equipment Selection (imp:1.75 lvl:1.12) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job. Technology Design (imp:1.62 lvl:1.12) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs. Operations Analysis (imp:1.50 lvl:0.88) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design. Programming (imp:1.50 lvl:0.88) — Writing computer programs for various purposes. Installation (imp:1.25 lvl:0.38) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications. Equipment Maintenance (imp:1.00) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o Repairing (imp:1.00) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
--- NATIONAL WAGES --- total_employment : 22,270 annual_median : $66,800 annual_pct10 : $39,690 annual_pct25 : $50,170 annual_pct75 : $88,010 annual_pct90 : $107,610 annual_mean : $72,710 hourly_median : $32.11 --- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION --- highest_state : District of Columbia ($123,390) lowest_state : Puerto Rico ($30,160) dispersion_ratio : 4.091x --- TOP STATES BY WAGE (45 total) --- Health Care and Social Assistance emp: 21,440 median: $ 66,610 Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp: 340 median: $ 93,070 Management of Companies and Enterprises emp: 310 median: $ 63,770 Educational Services emp: 80 median: $ 58,480 --- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (4 total) --- Health Care and Social Assistance emp: 21,440 median: $ 66,610 Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp: 340 median: $ 93,070 Management of Companies and Enterprises emp: 310 median: $ 63,770 Educational Services emp: 80 median: $ 58,480
exact_match_status : found matched_title : Surgeon's assistant match_score : 0.7368 wikidata_qid : Q1907218 word_count : 319 wikipedia_url : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surgeon's_assistant license : CC BY-SA 4.0 fetched_at : 2026-06-02T21:50:29.115430Z --- WIKIPEDIA FULL TEXT --- A surgeon's assistant, also known as a surgical assistant, assistant in surgery or first assistant, is a healthcare professional who provides direct manual and/or instrumental assistance to meet the in-procedure demands of a surgeon during a surgical operation. Most surgical assistants are trainee surgeons or junior doctors, but In the United Kingdom, a surgical care practitioner, who is not a qualified doctor, may perform simple surgical operations under the supervision of one. In the United States, the American College of Surgeons supports the concept that, ideally, the first assistant at the operating table should be a qualified surgeon or a resident in an approved surgical training program. Residents who have appropriate levels of training should be provided with opportunities to assist and participate in operations. If such assistants are unavailable, other physicians who are experienced in assisting may participate or a qualified practitioner licensed in the role of surgical assistant. The American College of Surgeons maintains that a physician who assists with an operation should be trained to participate in and actively assist the surgeon in safely completing the operation. When a surgeon is unavailable to serve as an assistant, a qualified surgical resident or other qualified health care professional, such as a nurse practitioner or physician assistant with experience in assisting, may participate in operations, according to the ACS Statements on Principles. A qualified practitioner is defined as any licensed practitioner with sufficient training to conduct a delegated portion of a procedure without the need for more experienced supervision, according to the ACS Statements on Principles. The U.S. Bureau of Labor defines surgical assistants as individuals that assist in operations, under the supervision of surgeons. They may, in accordance with state laws, help surgeons to make incisions and close surgical sites, manipulate or remove tissues, implant surgical devices or drains, suction the surgical site, place catheters, clamp or cauterize vessels or tissue, and apply dressings. == References == --- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) --- Title: Surgery (similarity: 0.3077) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surgery QID: Q40821 Extract: Surgery is a medical specialty that uses manual and instrumental techniques to diagnose or treat pathological conditions, to alter bodily functions, to reconstruct or alter aesthetics and appearance, or to remove unwanted tissues, neoplasms and foreign bodies. Title: Retractor (medicine) (similarity: 0.2564) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retractor_(medicine) QID: Q1618837 Extract: A retractor is a surgical instrument used to separate the edges of a surgical incision/wound or to hold away certain organs and tissues so that body parts underneath may be accessed during surgical operations. Title: Association of Cardiothoracic Surgical Assistants (similarity: 0.5588) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Association_of_Cardiothoracic_Surgical_Assistants QID: Q4809685 Extract: The Association of Cardiothoracic Surgical Assistants (ACSA) is a professional body in the United Kingdom that ACSA represents a body of non-medical practitioners working in cardiothoracic surgery, performing a range of skilled interventions. It was formed in 1997. Title: List of professional designations in the United States (similarity: 0.3562) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_professional_designations_in_the_United_States QID: Q17164988 Extract: Many professional designations in the United States take the form of post-nominal letters. Professional societies or educational institutes usually award certifications. Obtaining a certificate is voluntary in some fields, but in others, certification from a government-accredited agency may be legal Title: John Edward McGinty (similarity: 0.2632) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Edward_McGinty QID: Q62018364 Extract: John Edward McGinty was an American securities analyst and investment banker in the New York City and Chicago from 1970 to 2011. Initially covering farm and construction equipment, he added engineering and construction companies, maintaining industry rankings in both areas. Employed out of business
model_pass1 : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2 : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes : Strong confidence supported by comprehensive O*NET data, BLS wage statistics, and Wikipedia validation. Clear task descriptions and skill requirements provide detailed occupational profile.
inferred_at : 2026-06-03T20:01:36.079048+00:00
tokens_input : 4,830
tokens_output : 4,048
cost_usd : $0.043992
wikipedia_used : True
wikipedia_title : Surgeon's assistant
wikipedia_note : The Wikipedia entry confirms the role definition as healthcare professionals providing direct manual and instrumental assistance during surgical operations. It notes variation in training backgrounds, from trainee surgeons to specialized surgical care practitioners.
--- PROSE FIELDS ---
ROLE SUMMARY:
Surgical Assistants are healthcare professionals who provide direct support to surgeons during operations, helping with incisions, tissue manipulation, and surgical site management under medical supervision. They maintain sterile environments, pass instruments, monitor patients, and coordinate with surgical teams to ensure safe and efficient procedures. This role requires extensive medical knowledge, precise manual dexterity, and the ability to work effectively under high-pressure situations.
DAY IN THE LIFE:
A Surgical Assistant begins by discussing the surgical procedure with the surgeon, reviewing operative consent and exposure methods. They coordinate patient positioning using stabilizing equipment and protective padding, then maintain aseptic technique throughout the operation. During surgery, they pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon, assist with insertion and positioning of drainage systems, and help team members with gowning and gloving. They monitor the patient's condition, assess skin integrity post-procedure, and operate sterilizing devices to maintain equipment safety.
WHO THRIVES:
Individuals who excel in this role demonstrate exceptional dependability and attention to detail, as patient safety depends on their precision and vigilance. They possess strong arm-hand steadiness and finger dexterity for delicate surgical tasks, combined with excellent oral comprehension to follow complex medical instructions quickly. Those who thrive are realistic and conventional in their approach, preferring structured environments with clear protocols, while maintaining the social awareness needed to collaborate effectively with surgical teams under intense pressure.
CAREER ENTRY:
Entry typically requires an associate's degree or post-secondary certificate in surgical technology or a related healthcare field, with 25% holding associate's degrees and 31.5% having various post-secondary certificates. Many positions require certification as a Surgical Assistant (CSA) or Certified First Assistant (CFA), along with clinical training in sterile technique and surgical procedures. Prior experience as a surgical technologist or in other healthcare support roles often provides valuable preparation for this medium-preparation occupation.
CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Surgical Assistants can advance to specialized surgical areas like cardiovascular or neurosurgery, requiring additional certification and training. Career progression may lead to roles as Certified Registered Nurse First Assistants (CRNFA) with nursing education, or transition to surgical technology leadership positions. Some pursue further education to become surgical technologists, anesthesiologist assistants, or advance into nursing or other healthcare professions requiring additional degrees.
MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
The field employs 22,270 professionals nationwide with a median annual salary of $66,800 according to BLS OEWS May 2025, ranging from $39,690 to $107,610. Geographic variation is significant, with the District of Columbia offering the highest wages at $123,390 compared to Puerto Rico's $30,160, representing a 4.09x ratio. Employment is heavily concentrated in healthcare and social assistance (96.3% of jobs), with strong demand driven by increasing surgical procedures and an aging population requiring more medical interventions.
AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
This role has low automation risk due to the critical need for human judgment, manual dexterity, and real-time decision-making during surgery. While some monitoring processes and equipment operation may become more automated, the core activities of assisting surgeons, maintaining sterile technique, and providing direct patient care require human expertise that cannot be easily replicated by technology.
--- REASONED EDGES ---
[task_similarity] Surgical Technologists (29-2055.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both roles involve maintaining sterile operative fields, preparing surgical equipment, and assisting during procedures with high task overlap.
data: Maintain sterile operative fields
data: Prepare medical supplies or equipment
data: Assist healthcare practitioners during surgery
[skill_overlap] Anesthesiologist Assistants (29-1071.01) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both require high levels of medicine and dentistry knowledge (4.2+ importance) and critical patient monitoring skills during procedures.
data: Medicine and Dentistry knowledge
data: Monitoring abilities
data: Patient care responsibilities
[riasec_cluster] Paramedics (29-2043.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Both are realistic-conventional healthcare roles requiring emergency response capabilities and patient assessment skills.
data: RIASEC R:5.70, C:4.40
data: Emergency medical response
data: Patient monitoring
[career_pathway] Medical Assistants (31-9092.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Medical assistant experience provides foundational healthcare knowledge and patient care skills that transfer to surgical assistant roles.
data: Customer and Personal Service knowledge
data: Healthcare preparation pathway
data: Patient care experience
[knowledge_overlap] Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians (29-2031.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Both require specialized medical equipment operation and patient monitoring in clinical settings with similar technical knowledge base.
data: Medical equipment operation
data: Patient monitoring
data: Healthcare technology skills
--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
match_keywords : ['surgical assistant', 'first assistant', 'certified surgical assistant', 'operating room assistant', 'surgical aide', 'surgery assistant', 'OR assistant', 'certified first assistant']
exclude_keywords : ['surgical technologist', 'scrub nurse', 'circulating nurse', 'anesthesia assistant', 'physician assistant']
title_patterns : ['*surgical assistant*', '*first assistant*', '*OR assistant*', '*certified*assistant*', '*surgery*assistant*']
common_variations: ['Surgical Assistant', 'First Assistant', 'Certified Surgical Assistant', 'CSA', 'CFA', 'Certified First Assistant', 'OR Assistant', 'Operating Room Assistant']
total_terms : 40 top_words : ['tendency', 'equipment', 'surgical', 'others', 'principles', 'body', 'medical', 'procedures', 'patient', 'control', 'patients', 'techniques', 'operations', 'includes', 'objects', 'healthcare', 'operative', 'materials', 'ideas', 'activities'] source_layers : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference TERM COUNT FREQ DOMINANT SOURCE SOURCE BREAKDOWN ────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── tendency 42 0.01424 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% equipment 40 0.01356 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:57% dwas:20% onet_tasks:12% surgical 40 0.01356 inference inference:45% wikipedia:40% onet_tasks:15% others 39 0.01323 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:97% wikipedia:3% principles 18 0.00610 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:89% wikipedia:11% body 16 0.00543 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:62% onet_tasks:19% wikipedia:19% medical 16 0.00543 dwas dwas:56% inference:25% wikipedia:12% procedures 15 0.00509 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:53% inference:20% onet_tasks:13% patient 15 0.00509 onet_tasks onet_tasks:53% inference:27% dwas:20% control 15 0.00509 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:80% dwas:13% onet_tasks:7% patients 13 0.00441 dwas dwas:62% onet_tasks:23% onet_dimensions:8% techniques 13 0.00441 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:77% onet_tasks:8% dwas:8% operations 13 0.00441 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:46% wikipedia:38% inference:15% includes 12 0.00407 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% objects 12 0.00407 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% healthcare 12 0.00407 inference inference:50% dwas:42% wikipedia:8% operative 11 0.00373 onet_tasks onet_tasks:64% dwas:27% inference:9% materials 11 0.00373 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:91% onet_tasks:9% ideas 11 0.00373 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% activities 11 0.00373 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:82% dwas:9% inference:9% assistant 11 0.00373 wikipedia wikipedia:73% inference:27% surgeon 10 0.00339 wikipedia wikipedia:50% onet_tasks:30% inference:20% operate 10 0.00339 dwas dwas:50% onet_dimensions:30% onet_tasks:10% sterile 10 0.00339 onet_tasks onet_tasks:40% dwas:30% inference:30% quickly 10 0.00339 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:90% inference:10% needs 9 0.00305 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:89% onet_tasks:11% devices 9 0.00305 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:56% onet_tasks:22% wikipedia:11% instruments 9 0.00305 dwas dwas:44% onet_tasks:33% inference:22% surgery 9 0.00305 dwas dwas:33% wikipedia:33% inference:22% events 9 0.00305 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:89% onet_tasks:11% problems 9 0.00305 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% monitoring 9 0.00305 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:89% inference:11% human 9 0.00305 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:78% inference:22% providing 9 0.00305 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:78% inference:22% resources 9 0.00305 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% performing 9 0.00305 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:89% wikipedia:11% orientation 9 0.00305 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% maintaining 9 0.00305 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:67% inference:22% wikipedia:11% procedure 8 0.00271 onet_tasks onet_tasks:50% wikipedia:25% inference:25% effectively 8 0.00271 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:75% inference:25%