Surgical Physician Assistant - South Carolina

Surgical Physician Assistant

Position Summary

The Surgical Physician Assistant (PA) provides advanced clinical care to surgical patients across preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative settings. Working collaboratively with surgeons and the multidisciplinary care team, the PA supports patient evaluation, assists in surgical procedures, and manages perioperative care to ensure safe, high-quality outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive patient assessments, including histories and physical examinations

• Assist surgeons in the operating room, including first-assist duties as appropriate

• Manage preoperative and postoperative patient care

• Conduct daily inpatient rounds and coordinate treatment plans

• Order, interpret, and document diagnostic tests, imaging, and laboratory results

• Perform bedside and procedural interventions within scope of practice

• Manage post-operative complications and coordinate consults as needed

• Provide patient and family education regarding procedures, recovery, and follow-up care

• Participate in outpatient clinics, follow-up visits, and continuity-of-care planning

• Document all patient encounters accurately and timely in the electronic medical record

• Collaborate with nursing, anesthesia, therapy, and support services

• Participate in quality improvement, patient safety, and departmental initiatives

Clinical Areas May Include

• General surgery

• Orthopedic surgery

• Trauma and acute care surgery

• Cardiothoracic surgery

• Neurosurgery or other surgical subspecialties

Schedule

• Day shift with variable hours

• May include call, evenings, weekends, or holidays depending on service needs

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program

• Current national certification as a Physician Assistant

• Active or eligible state licensure

• BLS certification required; ACLS preferred

• Prior surgical or inpatient experience preferred but not required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong clinical assessment and procedural skills

• Ability to function effectively in fast-paced surgical environments

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills

• Strong organizational and documentation abilities

• Commitment to patient-centered, evidence-based care

Work Environment

• Operating room, inpatient units, and outpatient clinic settings

• Requires standing for prolonged periods, lifting, and manual dexterity

• Exposure to surgical equipment, bloodborne pathogens, and high-acuity patients