Sterile Processing Supervisor

About the Role

Oversees daily operational duties of the sterile processing technicians in all areas of the Central Sterile Processing (CSP) department. Serves as the primary contact for any processes related to the Central Sterile department. Assists the Manager in overseeing department operations, coordinates staff activities, schedules assignments, provides input for evaluation of staff performance, offers technical direction, reviews process records for accuracy, and maintains adherence to all operating standards, department, and hospital policies and procedures. Access to medication storage areas is required.

Responsibilities

• Monitors and ensures daily operational compliance with standards governing sterile processing activities from agencies such as HSPA, ANSI/AAMI, The Joint Commission, OSHA, AORN, federal, state, and local governments.
• Assists in incorporating standards into a comprehensive developmental quality assurance program.
• Assists in monitoring all staff training programs and ensures staff are knowledgeable and adhere to applicable standards, procedures, and safety requirements.
• Supervises Central Sterile Processing Technicians to ensure maximum productivity and effectiveness, evaluates work performance, and disciplines as appropriate.
• Facilitates workflow and technical requirements in each area of Central Sterile processing to ensure productivity exceeds expectations for rapid patient care response.
• Coordinates with the Perioperative/CSP Clinical Education Coordinator and CSP Leadership to assist with in-services and in-house training for all CSP staff.
• Participates in staff training initiatives and competencies, identifies skill deficiencies, and stays current with all Sterile Processing standards, policies, and procedures.
• Reports and communicates equipment failures, ensures maintenance or repair requests are submitted promptly, and escalates as needed.
• Stays current with trends and advances in sterile processing methods by attending training sessions, professional forums, or reading healthcare literature, and attends a minimum of one external educational seminar per year.
• Assists with daily procurement activities to meet immediate department needs and performs sterile processing activities during staff shortages as required.
• Monitors performance and operation of multi-site work locations during the assigned shift.
• Communicates effectively with the Perioperative team, visitors, Medical System personnel, and CSP team members regarding issues affecting patient care.
• Exemplifies proficient customer service and resolves issues related to sterilization, staffing, and customer satisfaction.
• Observes and enforces departmental and general UMMS policies and procedures, particularly safety, security, and infection control guidelines.

Requirements

• High School Diploma is required.
• Certification as a Central Service (Sterile Supply) Technician by a recognized agency is required.
• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Hospital Administration, or a related discipline is preferred.
• Certification through HSPA must be maintained by completing 12 credit hours of continuing education per year.
• CER Scope certification must be obtained within 1 year of hire.
• Three years’ experience in the supervision of a complex technical operation, with experience in a healthcare/sterile processing setting required.
• Experience as a certified surgical technician is preferred.