Sterile Processing Tech Trainee

Responsibilities

• Learns and applies sterile processing principles, including instrument inspection, assembly, decontamination, sterilization, infection prevention practices, and department operations.
• Progresses toward competency through hands-on training, education, and demonstrated proficiency in sterile processing procedures.
• Completes assigned educational materials, including Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) ST79 standards, department policies, and training modules, to develop foundational knowledge of sterile processing.
• Reviews in-house sterile processing materials with the Sterile Processing Department (SDP) Coordinator.
• Learns and practices proper procedures for cleaning, decontaminating, inspecting, and disassembling surgical instruments and medical equipment under the guidance of experienced staff.
• Develops knowledge of surgical instruments and instrument sets, including proper inspection, assembly, identification, handling, and care.
• Learns proper sterilization documentation procedures, including recording sterilization logs, mechanical printouts, biological and chemical testing results, and lot label documentation under supervision.
• Learns the safe operation of sterilizers, instrument washers, and related equipment while following manufacturer instructions and department policies.
• Learns to prepare instruments and instrument trays for sterilization using approved wrapping techniques, peel pouches, rigid containers, labeling requirements, and quality standards.
• Affords assistance with routine testing and monitoring of sterilizers and instrument washers while learning to accurately maintain required records and documentation.
• Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work environment consistent with department standards, infection prevention practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Responds appropriately to department phone calls and routine requests while providing excellent customer service.
• Learns and follows instrument tracking and recall procedures, including the application of lot labels to sterilized items.
• Demonstrates professionalism by adhering to department policies, dress code requirements, Standard Precautions, and organizational expectations.
• Learns and applies infection prevention and control principles during all assigned work activities.
• Affords assistance with inventory management, stocking, organization, and supply replenishment under the direction of experienced staff.
• Participates in department meetings, educational activities, competency assessments, and performance improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
• Preferred Qualifications: Previous experience in a healthcare, customer service, or manufacturing; exposure to sterile processing
• Enrollment in or completion of a Sterile Processing Technician training program