Sterile Processing Technician

SUMMARY

Assists the Operating Room (OR) staff in the organization and daily function of the operating room in accordance with established Federal, State and accreditation standards and center policies and procedures. Responsible for instrument decontamination, sterile processing, instrument care and handling and documentation and record keeping related to those activities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Organize, dissemble, decontaminate and assemble instruments individually and in sets for operating rooms, Lasik, SLT and MD offices.
• Prepare instruments according to manufacturer and facility guidelines, and supplies by wrapping in peel pack, or in AMSCO containers and proper storage.
• Prioritize tasks and prepare instruments according to case schedule per individual Surgeon and manage time appropriately.
• Comply with HIPAA regulations.
• Perform duties in an ethical and legal manner within the scope of the job.
• Comply with reporting adverse incidents.
• Knowledge of instrument names and their care and handling procedures.
• Follow standard precaution procedures using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Understand principles of sterilization and the operation of sterilization equipment, tray and load tracking, daily equipment monitoring with Bowie Dick test, chemical indicators and biologics.
• Document instruments that are missing, damaged, newly ordered, borrowed and sent for repair.
• Record temperature/humidity of operating rooms, refrigerators and blanket warmer temperature in log book. Document maintenance of equipment.
• Participate in continuing education/in-service training as needed, staff meetings and the QAPI/Infection Control programs.
• Actively participate in the development of a healthy work environment.
• Aid in departmental cost containment.
• Orient and mentor new staff members.
• Arrive to work area on time and has minimal absences.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks, as well as handle stress.
• Above average organization skills.
• Demonstrates a positive, friendly and courteous manner.
• Maintains a professional attitude.
• Demonstrates the ability to work well with other employees and the Surgeons.
• Recognizes each department’s significance and works appropriately with other departments.
• Average communication skills: oral and written.
• Has the ability to adhere to work schedule, be organized, manage time effectively and in a cost effective manner.
• Favorable result on background check required.

SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGY

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook.
• Printer, copier, telephone and fax.
• Autoclave, washer-sterilization, ultrasonic cleaner, biological test incubator, medical gas canisters, surgical instruments, equipment, machinery and medical supplies.
• Decontamination, chemical indicators, prevac.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• This role requires a variety of physical activities to effectively perform essential job functions. The position involves frequent walking (75%), sitting (50%), and standing (50%), with regular bending, stooping, and reaching (25–50%). Employees must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull items up to 25 lbs.
• Strong fine motor skills and full use of hands are essential, as the role demands constant grasping, writing/typing, and use of technology.
• Visual and auditory acuity—including color, depth, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus—is required 100% of the time.
• Occasional driving or climbing may also be necessary.