Sterile Processing Technician - Sterile Processing * Evenings - 40hrs/wk

Shift: Evenings | Full-time (1.0 FTE) | On-call and occasional overtime required, including rotating weekends and holidays

About the Role

Under direct supervision and according to established procedures, policies, and regulations, the Sterile Processing Technician performs technical work involved in decontamination, inspection, assembly, sterilization, sterile storage, high-level disinfection, and distribution of surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies. Ensures proper monitoring of sterilization equipment.

Responsibilities

• Effectively rotate through all work-stations and perform all SPD functions and assorted support duties:
  • Technicians in orientation—all functions and duties performed with direct supervision of a certified SPD technician.
  • Non-certified technicians who have completed orientation perform all functions independently.
• Prioritize workload based on departmental needs.
• Accurately clean and sort all soiled instrumentation, drills, scopes, and other medical equipment entering the decontamination area based on standards and manufacturer’s instructions. Adhere to Universal/Standard Precautions and department dress code at all times.
• Operate washer decontaminator, cart washer, ultrasonic cleaner, automated scope reprocessor, sterilizers, and computer systems.
• Perform proper principles and strict techniques of sterilization.
• Maintain daily records of Biological Indicators (BIs) and BOWIE-DICK test results via instrument tracking software. Read BIs at appropriate times with a low error rate (no more than one late or missed read per month).
• Ensure proper assembly and packaging of instrument sets according to count sheets, standards, and manufacturer’s instructions. Inspect all instruments for good working condition. Use appropriate chemical indicators for sterilization method. Maintain an error rate below 2.0% per month for tray accuracy.
• Assist in additional duties identified by SPD Lead Technician, SPD Supervisor, Clinical Director of OR/SPD, and/or the Surgical Services Director.
• Develop and maintain effective communication. Communicate missing instruments to appropriate SPD and OR staff. Report off effectively to the next shift.
• Inventory stock, non-stock supplies, and implants. Help maintain appropriate par levels and notify SPD Lead Technician or SPD Supervisor of low inventory.
• Adhere to hospital policies and procedures, incorporating hospital values into work practices. Follow Best Practice Standards.
• Mentor new SPD Technicians and students.
• Use proper body mechanics and ensure SPD is kept clean and organized.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including:
  • Maintaining current knowledge of department processes, protocols, and procedures.
  • Pursuing self-directed learning and continuing education opportunities.
  • Participating on committees, task forces, and work groups as determined by management.

Requirements

• High school diploma (GED) or equivalent.
• Certification in Sterile Service Technician from an accredited agency is expected. If not certified at hire, must become certified within two years and maintain certification. If certification becomes invalid, three months are allowed to recertify to maintain employment.
• Working knowledge of sterile or aseptic technique.
• Working knowledge of decontamination and sterilization principles.
• Ability to utilize computer applications, including Microsoft Office and various web-based programs.
• Ability to perform basic computer data entry.
• Ability to read and understand manufacturer instructions for cleaning and sterilization of proprietary instruments and equipment.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Self-motivated, self-directed, and assumes responsibility for actions.

Skills

• Physical activity involves lifting 20-50 pound instrument trays or sets, walking, pushing, and pulling carts and equipment, with occasional lifting of heavier trays.
• Able to work with a sense of urgency while maintaining accuracy.
• Must be accurate and willing to follow set rules and standards of practice.