Sterile Processing Technician

Overview

JOB SUMMARY:

Responsible for the decontamination, inspection, assembly, packaging, sterilization, storage, and distribution of operating instrumentation. Incumbents will adhere to all departmental policies and procedures to ensure that instrumentation is available for surgical procedures in a timely manner.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

High School diploma or GED equivalent.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Operates all department machinery and promptly reports issues to the Instrument Processing Supervisor or Lead Instrument Technician.
2. Performs manual and/or automated decontamination of instruments.
3. Inspects instruments to ensure cleanliness and proper functionality.
4. Assembles instruments into containers according to count sheets.
5. Packages instruments according to manufacturer's instructions.
6. Performs sterilization and verifies adequacy of the sterilization process.
7. Maintains documentation of sterilization processes.
8. Stores sterile containers in identified location.
9. Assembles case carts according to the picklist and deliver to the OR.
10. Participates in the department's weekday surge plan and weekend call.
11. Assists other team members as needed.
12. Protects self, coworkers, and facility by following policies and procedures concerning the prevention of spreading blood borne and or airborne contaminates/diseases.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to operate equipment such as the steam sterilizer, low temperature sterilizers, ultrasonic washers, and washer decontaminators
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Proficient communication skills
• Knowledge of instrument tracking software

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Exposure to hazards associated with bodily fluids and tissue
• Regular exposure to the risk of blood borne diseases
• Exposure to chemical agents used in cleaning
• Exposure to hazards of steam and heat, may be subject to burns
• Loud stressful environment due to equipment and high demands
• Subject to varying and unpredictable situations
• Subject to many interruptions
• Occasional pressure due to multiple calls and inquiries
• Exposure to sharp instruments that may result in cuts or abrasions