Resource Coordinator Sterile Equipment Processing - Feinberg, Full-time, Days

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care within the Northwestern Medicine system.

About the Role

The Resource Coordinator Sterile Equipment Processing reflects the mission, vision, and values of Northwestern Memorial, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines, and regulatory and accreditation standards. This role maintains a National/International Certification in Sterile Processing and Distribution and provides direct and indirect supervision to Sterile Processing Technicians. The position requires thorough knowledge of aseptic techniques, sterilization methods, infection control procedures, workflow principles, and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Supports all NMH and RNSC CSS Departments by supervising staff who disassemble, decontaminate, assemble, sterilize, and store procedure trays, instruments, equipment, and supplies according to prescribed procedures and aseptic technique.
• Ensures accuracy of case cart distribution to Surgical Services and adherence to sterilization, biological processes, and all safety and infection control standards.
• Directs, prioritizes, and adjusts staff work assignments for assigned shifts to ensure timely and accurate delivery of OR equipment, supplies, and case carts.
• Assigns staff to job duties to meet patient care demands, patient volume, trauma emergencies, and staff vacancies.
• Demonstrates and instructs staff on the use of the Tray Tracking computer system and proper sterilization techniques for instruments, equipment, and supplies.
• Ensures staff compliance with departmental policies and procedures, including proper documentation and record-keeping for sterilization processes.
• Assists in policy and procedure development, implementation, and review.
• Operates and demonstrates all sterilization and decontamination equipment, contacting Facilities Management for equipment failures.
• Delegates duties to staff, including assembling trays, wrapping packages, and distributing or storing items according to procedure.
• Resolves instrument tray issues and assists in maintaining department quality monitors related to sterilization and sterile handling/storage.
• Notifies the Manager of positive biological spore testing and initiates recall procedures immediately.
• Follows physicians’ preference sheets and dispenses sterile instrumentation and supplies based on procedure requirements.
• Oversees accuracy and distribution of case carts to Surgical Services and communicates specific instrument requests to staff.
• Manages staffing needs for subsequent shifts, including arranging coverage and managing overtime within budgetary allowances.
• Ensures all work areas and equipment are cleaned and maintained according to Infection Control standards.
• Complies with regulatory, environmental, safety, hazardous materials, and infection control policies and procedures.
• Assists in the orientation of new employees and provides feedback on their progress.
• Provides input to the Manager regarding staff Annual Performance Management Reviews and/or Action Plans.
• Performs rounds throughout the department and completes daily rounds documentation.
• Communicates professionally with all departments, operating room staff, CSS staff, and surgeons to resolve work-related problems.
• Provides on-call coverage during weekends and holidays, including staffing assignments and departmental coverage during shortages.
• Attends hospital and departmental educational training sessions and ensures staff participation.
• Maintains National or International Certification for Sterile Processing and pursues continuing education.
• Participates in capital and operational budget planning, prepares timecards and work schedules for Sterile Processing Staff.
• Recommends changes to work processes or systems based on NMH strategies, regulatory requirements, and industry trends.
• Monitors employee attendance and notifies the manager of issues as appropriate.
• Provides coverage for all SPD positions as needed, including required overtime.
• Leads or participates in assigned special projects and attends service line meetings to provide summaries to the leadership team.
• Represents CSS on hospital committees and process improvement teams, as well as NMH in industry/professional associations.
• Conducts biological spore testing, documents results, and participates in the Department Quality Management Plan.
• Orders replacement instruments as needed and conducts tray audits, compliance audits, and other quality checks.
• Documents quality events and tracks follow-up actions.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• National (NICHSPDP) or International (IAHCSMM) Certification in Sterile Processing and Distribution.
• Three or more years of experience in a Sterile Processing Department.
• Experience and knowledge of surgical instrumentation.
• Understanding of Human Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Terminology, basic microbiology, and a variety of OR surgical procedures.
• Minimum of one year of supervisory or coordinator experience in Sterile Processing or a related field.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic computer skills.
• Physical ability to lift, push, pull, or move up to 30 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate Degree.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Benefits include:

• Tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness.
• 401(k) matching.
• Lifecycle benefits.