Sterile Proc Tech

vcuhealth; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

VCU Health is seeking a Sterile Processing Technician to decontaminate and sterilize surgical instruments, assemble case carts, and maintain a clean, safe environment in accord with AAMI, JCAHO, CDC, DNV and HIPAA standards.

The role performs manual cleaning, validates sterilization processes, operates sterilizers, washers and ultrasonic cleaners, and transports instruments between perioperative services and Sterile Processing, while documenting results in the instrument tracking system.

Qualifications

• Two years or more experience in Sterile Processing.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Certification as CRCST or CSPDT is required or preferred.

Responsibilities

• Performs sterile processing activities without direct supervision.
• Decontaminates and sterilizes surgical instruments and equipment.
• Assembles trays and peel packs with indicators and labeling.
• Operates sterilizers, ultrasonics, washers and related equipment.
• Transports instruments between peri-operative services and Sterile Processing.
• Documents all activities and reports variances in tracking systems.

Skills

Medical terminology

Sterile processing

Instrument identification

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Sterile Processing program

Job description

The Sterile Proc Tech job performs a variety of indirect patient care activities. This includes decontamination of surgical instruments and sterilization of instruments, supplies and equipment. Ensures all necessary instruments/devices are assembled and sterilized correctly and having all case carts assembled according to count sheets. This position observes strict patient confidentiality following all HIPAA regulations and will act in accordance with sterility per the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI), The Joint Commission (JCAHO), Center for Disease Control (CDC), Det Norske Veritas (DNV) and state standards of practice. Primary duties may vary depending on area assigned. This position maintains a clean and safe environment.

Essential Job Statements

• Performs sterile processing activities without direct supervision.
• Performs decontamination functions including manual cleaning and processing of surgical instrumentation and patient care equipment according to manufacturer's instructions for use.
• Perform daily checks on all Sterile Processing equipment to include Sterilizers, ultrasonics, instrument washers, and other similar equipment.
• Properly operate cleaning and sterilization equipment, such as cart washers, sonic cleaners, washers, sterilizers, and heat-sealing units.
• Transport additional instrumentation as needed between Peri-operative Services and Sterile Processing rooms.
• Verifies skill in assembly of trays and peel packs, to include internal chemical indicators, lot control numbers, wrapping, labeling and methods of sterilization.
• Documents all activities as required within the outlined processes and reports variances that may affect the outcome of sterile products or patient care and safety.
• Performs necessary tests (including biological test, leak testing, etc.), on equipment to include but not limited to sterilizers, ultrasonics, instrument washers, dosing agents, and documents results.
• Records results within the instrument tracking system-Biologicals, bowie checks, etc.

Employment Qualifications

• Required Education: High School Diploma or equivalent
• Preferred Education: Completion of Sterile Processing program (online or in person)

Licensing/ Certification

• Licensure/Certification Required: Certification as Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST)through HSPA or Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) through CBSPD. Maintain ongoing required learning (CEUs) to keep certification active .
• Licensure/Certification Preferred: N/A

Minimum Qualifications

• Years and Type of Required Experience: Two years or more experience in Sterile Processing.
• Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required: Medical terminology, identify various instrumentation, overall workflow, etc.
• Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred: N/A

Working Conditions

Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur. May be exposed to limited hazardous substances or body fluids.

• * May be exposed to human blood and other potentially infectious materials.
• * Individuals in this position are required to exercise universal precautions, use personal protective equipment and devices, and learn the policies concerning infection control.

Physical Requirements

Physical Demands: Lifting/ Carrying (0-50 lbs.), Push/ Pull (0-50 lbs.), Balance, Bending

Work Position: Sitting, Standing

Additional Physical Requirements/ Hazards

• Physical Requirements: Manual dexterity (eye/hand coordination), Perform shift work, Hear alarms/telephone/tape recorder, Reach above shoulder, Repetitive arm/hand movements, Finger Dexterity, Color Vision,
• Hazards: Exposure to Toxic/caustic/chemicals/detergents

Mental/Sensory - Emotional

• Mental / Sensory: Strong Recall, Reasoning, Problem Solving, Speak Clearly, Write Legibly, Reading, Logical Thinking,
• Emotional: Fast paced environment, Steady Pace, Able to Handle Multiple Priorities,

Compensation Range: $20.00 - $26.39

Actual salary offers will be based on several key factors to include relevant work experience, credentials, and qualifications.

EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran