Sterile Processing Tech

Position Overview

The Sterile Processing Technician provides sterile instruments and decontaminated, safe equipment for patients of all ages under the supervision of a Patient Care Manager/Coordinator or Chief Technician. He/She cleans, disinfects, assembles, packages and sterilizes surgical instruments; tests, operates and monitors sterilization equipment; documents and maintains sterilization records; assembles surgical supplies; and decontaminates, disinfects and distributes patient care equipment.

The Sterile Processing Technician verifies and assures accurate patient charges; orders patient equipment and supplies; and operates computer equipment to meet patient supply needs, for patient charge inquiry, and to post and credit charges.

The Tech must demonstrate the following skills: using sterilization equipment and instruments; arranging instruments on surgical trays; following written instructions and performing multiple tasks; and in establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with others.

Education

A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required. Knowledge of medical terminology is essential.

Experience

Central Service, OR Instrument/Supply and computer entry experience is preferred.

Reports To

Patient Care Manager, Patient Care Coordinator, and/or Chief Technician.

Physical Demands

Work is moderately active: involves sitting with frequent requirements to move about the office, move about the facility, and to travel to another facility within the SRHS service area. Work involves exerting a negligible amount of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Work involves using repetitive motions: substantial movements of the wrists, hands and/or fingers while operating standard office equipment such as computer keyboard, copier, and 10-key. Work involves being able to perceive the nature of sound at normal speaking levels with or without correction; the ability to make fine discriminations in sound. Work requires close visual and acuity and the ability to adjust the eye to bring an object into sharp focus, i.e. shift gaze from viewing a computer monitor to forms/printed material that are closer to compare data at close vision. Must be able to be active for extended periods of time without experiencing undue fatigue. Must be able to work flexible hours.

Mental Demands

Keen mental faculties, sound judgment and decision-making skills for the preparation and sterilization of surgical instruments and the monitoring of computerized sterilization equipment. Must be able to consistently perform with a high degree of accuracy.

Special Demands

Must be able to function unsupervised in a highly conscientious manner. Must be able to set priorities and give close attention to details. Must be adaptable to change.