Cert Surg Instr Tech

Duties And Responsibilities

• Decontaminates surgical instrumentation, utilizing correct departmental procedures by:
  • Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while in the decontamination area.
  • Emptying all contaminated trash into appropriate containers, as well as placing all other trash into trash room bins.
  • Performing proper cleaning procedures and operating washer decontaminator.
• Inspects surgical instrumentation for cleanliness and proper working order by:
  • Inspecting all instrumentation for moving parts and taking appropriate action if problems are identified.
  • Verifying that instrumentation, lumens, scopes, etc., are free of all contaminants; removing any instruments from service until properly cleaned.
• Assembles surgical instrumentation according to accreditation standards and departmental procedures by:
  • Ensuring every item processed for any sterilization method has appropriate internal indicator.
  • Following the Censitrac scanning system to determine instrumentation needed for the tray, process a count sheet, and record the location of trays processed.
  • Identifying missing items not available for replacement, notifying the appropriate Surgical Coordinator of the missing instruments, then placing a 'Missing Instrument' sticker on the outside of set once approved to process by the Coordinator.
• Sterilizes instrumentation and completes quality control checks according to accreditation standards and departmental procedures by:
  • Utilizing appropriate Load Record documentation and specifications to load and operate sterilizer equipment.
  • Verifying that the sterilizer equipment has met the appropriate time and temperature parameters.
• Completes the biological documentation as required by all accreditation standards and departmental procedures by:
  • Preparing and running appropriate test packs for appropriate sterilizers.
  • Preparing the biological(s) for placement into appropriate incubators and recording appropriate information.
  • Following the Censitrac scanning system for recording and documenting information required for biological results, products sterilized in each load, and the parameters of the sterilization process.
  • Recording information required on appropriate records, based on the biological results.
• Ensures that inventory item(s) retrieved or returned are correct and are documented according to the established unit of measure by:
  • Prioritizing the pulling of OR case carts, filling stock requisitions, and restocking inventory carts according to departmental procedure.
  • Performing basic computer duties which include, locating proper inventory number(s), stock bin locations and quantities of stock available and on order.
  • Reporting inventory discrepancies to the Inventory Supervisor or Inventory Coordinator.
• Performs other functions to maintain personal competence and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the department by:
  • Channeling problems and/or complaints to appropriate resource person for investigation and resolution.
  • Reporting work location to the Lead Technician and when assignments cannot be completed.
  • Providing input and assisting in the implementation of the department quality assurance (QI) process.
  • Completing other job-related assignments and special projects as assigned.

Organizational Responsibilities

• Attends and participates in department meetings and is accountable for all information shared.
• Completes mandatory education, annual competencies and department specific education within established timeframes.
• Completes annual employee health requirements within established timeframes.
• Maintains license/certification, registration in good standing throughout fiscal year.
• Patient care providers are required to maintain current BCLS (CPR) and other certifications as required by position/department.
• Consistently utilizes appropriate universal precautions, protective equipment, and ergonomic techniques to protect patient and self.
• Adheres to regulatory agency requirements, survey process and compliance.
• Complies with established organization and department policies.
• Available to work overtime in addition to working additional or other shifts and schedules when required.

Education And Experience

• The knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated below are normally acquired through the successful completion of a high school diploma.
• A minimum of one year of central service processing experience is required.
• Completion of the certified central service tech program from the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materials Management (IAHCSMM) or other accredited central service or surgical technologist program resulting in certification must be attained within six months of hire.
• Maintain certification status.