Job Summary
The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for the sterilization and assembly of equipment needed for surgical/medical procedures. The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for identifying, inspecting, assembling, and sterilizing equipment, supplies, and procedure trays while ensuring equipment functions properly. The Sterile Processing Technician will package, clean, and decontaminate routine surgical instruments, patient care equipment, and monitor sterilizers and all associated equipment. The Sterile Processing Technician is also responsible for the stocking of supplies and instruments and will demonstrate knowledge in the instrument repair, case cart, and procedure pick list processes.
What You Will Do
- Actively work to promote and maintain an organizational culture that enhances our standing as the best place to work and receive care.
- Demonstrate knowledge of The Surgery Center’s current policies and procedures.
- Ensure proper decontamination, cleaning, and processing of procedure trays, surgical instruments, and equipment according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Ensure proper assembly and packaging of instrument sets to allow for proper sterilization.
- Label and initial all assembled procedure trays, ensuring all quality control monitors have been placed appropriately.
- Decontaminate, clean, and validate the accuracy of instruments/sets from outside sources (hospital, clinic, vendor, etc).
- Display knowledge of the care and handling of instruments, supplies, and equipment.
- Monitor sterilizer function by performing daily Bowie-Dick and all other biological testing on all sterilizers in the department and accurately record results and maintain appropriate logs on all sterilization equipment.
- Escalate positive results for appropriate intervention.
- Assist in the maintenance of equipment and instrumentation by checking instruments for proper operation and overall condition and identifying items in need of repair.
- Notify the appropriate party of needed repairs.
- Assemble all equipment, instruments, and sets according to manufacturer’s recommendations and count sheets.
- Document missing items from sets on the count sheet.
- Maintain specified inventories of supplies in the assembly area and report low supply.
- Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work environment.
- Prepare surgical case carts by utilizing the specific pick list to accurately gather instruments, equipment, and supplies needed for each case.
- Inspect items throughout the pick process to ensure package integrity remains intact and package is within expiration date.
- Assist with stripping, cleaning, and setting up the OR suite for cases with efficiency and speed.
- Assist with OR flow as required.
- Contribute to meeting the fluctuating staffing needs of the department as evidenced by flexibility in own assignment and work schedule.
- Demonstrate initiative and collaborate professionally with caregivers in/out of the OR suite.
- Promote teamwork by assisting with the precepting of new caregivers.
- Identify areas of conflict, intervene effectively, or seek assistance in conflict resolution.
Education & Experience
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum of one (1) year work experience in Central Processing is required.
- Experience in Ambulatory Surgery or Outpatient Surgery preferred.
Skills & Qualities
- Great team player
- Strong attention to detail
- Organizational skills
- Ability to remain calm under pressure
- Strong communication skills
- Inherent desire to go above and beyond
Certifications
Central Service Certification preferred.
Physical Abilities
Repeatedly lift objects of at least 50 pounds.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $20.83/hr-$35/hr + benefits. Individual pay is based on skills, experience, and other relevant factors. It is not intended that this Job Description include all details of the work functions of this position. The incumbent will perform work of a lower or equivalent classification as required or directed, and work of higher classification for training and development purposes or as situationally warranted.
Shields Health is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.