Sterile Processing Tech

OVERVIEW:
The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for the sterilization and assembly of equipment needed for surgical/medical procedures. The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for identifying, inspecting, assembling, and sterilizing equipment, supplies, and procedure trays while ensuring equipment functions properly. The Sterile Processing Technician will package, clean, and decontaminate routine surgical instruments, patient care equipment, and monitor sterilizers and all associated equipment. The Sterile Processing Technician is also responsible for the stocking of supplies and instruments and will demonstrate knowledge in the instrument repair, case cart, and procedure pick list processes.
RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Actively works to promote and maintain an organizational culture that enhances our standing as the best place to work and receive care.
• Active engagement in staff meetings, department meetings, in-services, annual educational requirements, etc.
• Demonstrates knowledge of The Surgery Center’s current policies and procedures.
• Ensures proper decontamination, cleaning, and processing of procedure trays, surgical instruments, and equipment according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Ensures proper assembly and packaging of instrument sets to allow for proper sterilization.
• Labels and initials all assembled procedure trays, ensuring all quality control monitors have been placed appropriately.
• Decontaminates, cleans, and validates the accuracy of instruments/sets from outside sources (hospital, clinic, vendor, etc).
• Displays knowledge of the care and handling of instruments, supplies, and equipment.
• Monitors sterilizer function by performing daily Bowie-Dick and all other biological testing on all sterilizers in the department and accurately records results and maintains appropriate logs on all sterilization equipment. Escalates positive results for appropriate intervention.
• Assists in the maintenance of equipment and instrumentation by checking instruments for proper operation and overall condition and identifying items in need of repair. Notifies the appropriate party of needed repairs.
• Assembles all equipment, instruments, and sets according to manufacturer’s recommendations and count sheets.
• Documents missing items from sets on the count sheet.
• Maintains specified inventories of supplies in the assembly area and reports low supply.
• Maintains an organized, clean, and safe work environment.
• Prepares surgical case carts by utilizing the specific pick list to accurately gather instruments, equipment, and supplies needed for each case.
• Inspects items throughout the pick process to ensure package integrity remains intact and package is within expiration date.
• Assists with stripping, cleaning, and setting up the OR suite for cases with efficiency and speed.
• Assists with OR flow as required.
• Contributes to meeting the fluctuating staffing needs of the department as evidenced by flexibility in own assignment and work schedule.
• Demonstrates initiative and collaborates professionally with caregivers in/out of the OR suite.
• Promotes teamwork by assisting with the precepting of new caregivers.
• Identifies areas of conflict, intervenes effectively, or seeks assistance in conflict resolution.

EDUCATION:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of one (1) year work experience in Central Processing is required.
• Experience in Ambulatory Surgery or Outpatient Surgery preferred.
• Great team player
• Strong attention to detail
• Organizational skills
• Ability to remain calm under pressure
• Strong communication skills
• Inherent desire to go above and beyond

CERTIFICATIONS:

• Central Service Certification preferred

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Repeatedly lift objects of at least 50 pounds

NOTE: It is not intended that this Job Description include all details of the work functions of this position. The incumbent will perform work of lower or equivalent classification as required or directed and work of higher classification for training and development purposes or as warranted.