STERILE PROCESSING TECH I

Aurora Health Care; Park Ridge (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Aurora Health Care in Park Ridge, IL seeks a Sterile Processing Associate to support sterilization, packaging, and inventory functions. The role involves preparing items for terminal sterilization, labeling loads, and updating Censitrac records while maintaining a clean, safe work environment.

The position includes assembling case carts for MOR, ASC, and L&D, performing basic instrument decontamination, and collaborating with team members to ensure accurate load tracking and efficient

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; healthcare experience preferred.
• Good communication skills and ability to follow directions.
• Computer skills and familiarity with hospital systems.

Responsibilities

• Package/wrap items for terminal sterilization following procedures.
• Perform Bowie Dick and Biological Testing and interpret results.
• Document loads in Censitrac and attach corresponding date labels.
• Store sterile items properly and maintain a clean work area.
• Report equipment malfunctions to supervisor or charge tech.
• Assemble case carts for MOR, ASC, and L&D.
• Decontaminate basic instrument trays and operate washer/decontaminator.
• Collaborate with staff and document load records.

Skills

Good communication

Follow directions

Computer skills

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Censitrac

Washer/Decontaminator

Job description

Major Responsibilities: PERFORMANCE OF PACKAGING/WRAPPING AND ALL STERILIZATION FUNCTIONS: STEAM, ETO AND STERRAD 6)Validates each sterlization cycle utilizing biological, chemical and mechanical indicators. Opens each test pack verifying chemical indicator strip has passed and affixes to corresponding load record. Attaches corresponding date label to top of the bioligical vial out of the test pack and places BI into the correct incubator for processing, filling out BI log for each BI entered into an incubator. 5)Reviews, initials and signs sterilization tape at end of cycle, reading tape to ensure all sterlization parameters were met.Attaches tape to upper right hand corner of corresponding load record. 7)Verifies and completes paperwork after BI has finished processing, filling out BI log to release load for storage/use. Releases load in Censitrac. Stores sterile items in appropriate areas.8)Reports any malfunctioning equipment to Supervisor and/or Charge Tech immediately. 9)Maintains a neat and clean work environment. 1)Follows established procedures to package/wrap items for Terminal Sterilization. 2)Ablility to perform Bowie Dick and Biological Testing (i.e.Chemical and Biological Monitors) for the purpose of monitoring the sterilizers on a daily basis, or after sterlizers have been serviced, repaired, or an interuption in steam has occurred, and interpret the results. 3)Positions each item on sterlization cart/rack to ensure proper sterlization and places a test pack with every load. Date labels each item in the load with current date and load number sticker. 4)Documents each sterilization load in Censitrac by scanning Censitrac label located on each tray/single, or by handwritting items that are not in Censitrac (e.g.items received from outside department or affiliated facility), on the printed load record. Affix corresponding date label in upper righthand corner of load record. PERFORMANCE OF INVENTORY/STORAGE/DISTRIBUTION FUNCTIONS 1)Receives supplies from storeroom and outside vendors, ensuring supplies entering Sterile Processing Department are devoid of external contaminants. 2)Places supplies received from storeroom and outside vendors on the proper shelves, ensuring stock is rotated so that the first in/first out inventory system is maintained.3)Returns unused sterile trays and single peel pack items to appropriate shelf, scanning trays with hand held scanners for location purposes, ensuring that trays can be located when needed. 4)Places sterilized items in appropriate areas for distribution to outside departments, ensuring items are accurately sorted and bagged for each department. 5)Assists with cleaning storage areas and storage shelves to maintain a contaminant free environment. CASE CART ASSEMBLY 1)Assembles case carts for MOR, ASC, and L&D according to the preference card.2)Missing supplies and/or instruments are noted. 3)MOR and ASC instruments are scanned to the case cart. The case cart is than scanned to the room. 4)Case carts are delivered to the unit.DECONTAMINATION OF BASIC INSTRUMENTS 1)Wears proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) when performing duties in Decontamination area. Handles infectious waste in accordance with established hospital guidelines. 2)Cleans basic instrument trays. 3)Able to load and run washer/decontaminator and case cart washer.BASIC INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY 1)Able to assemble basic instrument trays with minimal supervision. 2)Ability to assemble/package items from ancillary areas. 3)Maintain a neat and clean workstation. COMMUNICATION SKILLS 1)Comprehends written and verbal instructions, asking clarifying questions when in doubt.2)Communicates appropriately with staff and customers using Behavior of Excellence guidelines. 3)Able to document appropriately, i.e. Load Records, BI Records. 4)Collaborates with co-workers to prioritize workload for productive outputs.5)Identifies own learning needs and uses resources provided, i.e. peers, supervisor, department educator. 6)Gives and receives productive feedback to and from co-workers and supervisor. 7)Answers department phone in a timely and courteous manner, responding promptly to STAT or ASAP requests.Education/Experience Required: • High school diploma. • 1 year experience required, Healthcare preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required: • Good communication skills. • Ability to communicate and follow directions. • Computer skills.Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: • ETO exposure. • Exposure to blood/body fluids. • Heavy Lifting 30-40 lbs. • Hepatitis vaccination at hire • Ability to respond quickly to emergent situations.Strength/dexterity to handle surgical instruments/equipment • Ability to access all areas of the department This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.