Excela Health Role Spotlight: Jodi, CST/CSFA

February is American Heart Month. During the month, we will be highlighting different members of the Heart Center at Excela Health and the part they play in caring for patients. To learn more about the award winning Heart, Lung & Vascular Institute, click here or to Find a Doctor, click here. 

Meet Certified Surgical First Assistant/Certified Surgical Technologist, Jodi Holtman. Jodi works in cardiac surgery. She has been in healthcare since 1994. With the support of the Latrobe Excela team, she was able to earn her Certified Surgical First Assistant in 2018. Jodi's role as a CST specifically is to set up the sterile surgical instrumentation, prepare the required sterile supplies and to anticipate any needs the surgeon may have during the patient’s surgery.

"During the surgical procedure, my main focus is to anticipate the needs of the surgeon and PA. I follow the course of surgery, recognizing possible changes in the plan and identify possible emergent situations."

"I enjoy watching the many dynamics that need to align for a cardiac surgery—cardiac anesthesia, cardiovascular profusionists, cardiothoracic surgeons, physician assistants, and surgical team. Being a member of a strong team reinforces the need for my own personal growth and continued education. I am proud to be a part of Excela’s heart program under the leadership of cardiothoracic surgeons Dr. Michael Culig, Dr. Hiro Tsukui, and Dr. Mitsu Ogawa. The Westmoreland County community and surrounding areas are lucky to have access to the cutting edge services they provide." 

If you're interested in joining the Excela Health team, view our open career opportunities here.