Sterile Processing Tech II PRN

Major Responsibilities:

• Performance of Assembly/Packaging/Wrapping. The Surgical Processing Specialist is accountable for the instrument assembly and preparation function which includes inspection and assembly of instrumentation sets used in the Operating Room as well as other departments in the hospital, or affiliated clinics.
  •     1)Examines surgical instrumentation for cleanliness, proper assembly, and proper performance.
  •     2)Instruments which need to be repaired, or sharpened are removed from service, and replaced.
  •     3)Instruments removed from service are communicated to the third party repair service as soon as possible.
  •     4)When necessary, new instruments are ordered by the manager to complete a surgical tray set.
  •     5)Assembles instrument sets, ensuring that the correct number and type of instruments are present, as described in the set count sheet approved by nursing and available in the SPD computer system or in a paper manual.
  •     6)Instruments are appropriately placed in the tray, to facilitate easy removal, and to prevent damage to the instruments or the wrapping.
  •     7)Follows established procedures to package and/or wrap the tray/items for terminal sterilization.
  •     8)Tests all instrumentation for correct function following established procedures (including manufacturer's recommendations) each time the instrument is processed.
  •     9)Perform electrical tests for all instrumentation that has an insulation coating each time that instrument is processed.
• Performance of Sterilization. The SPD Specialist Tech is accounatble for the the most technically complex function in CPD. Sterilization and the maintenance of sterility, as well as the specific procedures that must be followed are required in this accountability. The importance of ensuring that all items marked “sterile” are in fact sterile cannot be over-emphasized. It is imperative that technicians apply knowledge of AAMI standards and the factors that affect the process of sterilization.
  •     1)Assembles test packs for the purpose of monitoring the function of the sterilizers on a daily basis (i.e. chemical and biological monitors)
  •     2)Labels each item in the sterilizer load with the correct load label, and whenever possible with the computerized label describing the name of the contents, time and date of preparation, set number and name of preparer.
  •     3)Observes and assess the operation of each sterilizer for each cycle by reviewing and initialing each data tape for each load.
  •     4)Documents what type and how many of each item is processed in every load, using the computerized system whenever possible.
  •     5)Associate is responsible for alerting management and engineering immediately when any deficiency in the sterlizer performance is noted. This communication is documented in the change of shift log.
  •     6)Positions each item on the sterilization cart appropriately to ensure proper sterilization processing.
  •     7)Includes biological challenge pack or other applicable indicator of sterility as per protocol when using steam sterilization and any load containing implantables.
• Decontamination of Patient Care Equipment. The decontamination function encompasses cleaning and disinfecting of reusable instruments, supplies and equipment used in surgical patient care. This process is pivotal to breaking the disease transmission chain and this is essential to infection control and sterility assurance. The Surgical Processing Specialist is responsible for performing the above consistent with established guidelines and protocols.
  •     1)Wears proper protective attire when performing decontamination.
  •     2)Sets up decontamination equipment for operation and ensures proper functioning and continuous work flow throughout shift.
  •     3)Follows established procedures to ensure decontamination completion and correct handling of all patient care equipment
  •     4)If equipment is not functioning, remove from service and red tag the equipment. The SPD technician notifies the appropriate engineering department and the SPD manager or designee, and documents the information on the change of shift log.
  •     5)Handles infections waste according to established hospital policies and procedures.
  •     6)Maintains a clean and neat work area.
  •     7)Cleans and disinfects work area at the end the end of the shift with isopropyl alcohol and antibacterial cleaner, verifies that there is sufficient material for the following shift.
• Communication skills necessary to support the provision of quality surgical services to our staff and patients.
  •     1)Communicates properly and professionally with co-workers and fellow associates.
  •     2)Gives and receives appropriate feedback to and from fellow associates.
  •     3)Documents appropriately the required sterilization records, i.e load cards, computer input systems ( if applicable), shift change report, QA reports, etc.
  •     4)Identifies own learning needs and utilizes resources provided.
• Performance of Inventory/Storage/Distribution functions
  •     1)Receives supplies from the warehouse and outside vendors, checking the contents against the invoice and/or packing slip.
  •     2)Notifies manager of back orders and shortages, or errors in the orders received.
  •     3)Completes case carts for the OR following the standard procedure for loading the cart and ensuring items requested are ready for distribution to OR prior to the start of the surgical case.
  •     4)Assists with cleaning of storage areas and work stations to maintain a clean and organized department.
  •     5)Places sterile items in appropriate areas for distribution, ensuring the items are accurately sorted, and in properly labeled and cleaned areas.
  •     6)Stores sterile items in the SPD storage area, ensuring that items are rotated so the first-in/first-out inventory control is maintained.
  •     7)Answers the telephone within 3 rings in a courteous manner to take requests for supplies, trays and instruments and prioritizes requests.
• Maintenance of Effective Functions in the Department and Implementation of Quality Improvement
  •     1)Demonstrates independant functioning in performing tasks outlined in the job description, or appropriate related tasks as deemed necessary by the manager or the unit council.
  •     2)Reaches concensus with the team to perform unit operations in the most productive manner.
  •     3)Precepts and/or trains new technicians and completes competency validations for new associates
  •     4)Submits updates and participates in revision of policies and/or procedures.
  •     5)Presents problem/improvement opportunities with an action plan.
• Provision of Shift Departmental Leadership Accountabilities
  •     3)Resolves shift issues and leads team to solutions and reports actions taken department management.
  •     4)Trains new associates in all roles and functions of the department.
  •     5)Serves as a role model for team in all actions
  •     6)Resolves interdepartmental conflicts and/or miscommunications in a courteous and professional manner.
  •     7)Approves needed overtime for own and upcoming shifts to meet workflow demands.
  •     8)Regularly provides coworkers with feedback on work performance and productivity metrics.
  •     9)Actively contributes to performance improvement and leads unit based shared governance activities. Participates in committees and/or task forces as appropriate to role.
  •     10)Actively contributes to peer evaluation processes.
  •     1)Performs shift charge role as designated by departmental leadership
  •     2)Assigns workload and reassigns as needed to meet hospital priorities and workloads.

Education/Experience Required:

• High school diploma, or GED. BS preferred 3-5 years SPD experience

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

• Good communication skills. Demonstrates leadership skills, attitude and aptitude. Ability to communicate and follow directions. Ability to de-escalate situations and complaints. Computer skills, ability to use email. Experiene in operating sterilization equipment.
• Registered Certified Central Service Tech through CBSPD or the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• ETO exposure. Exposure to blood/body fluids. Work for extended time periods in full personal protective equipment when performing decontamination functions Hepatitis vaccine at hire Ability to respond quickly to emergent situations. Strength/dexterity to handle surgical instruments/equipment Ability to access all areas of the department The Surgical Processing Specialist must be able to respond appropriately to alarms on monitoring equipment, sterilization devices and telephone calls. The associate must be able to discern the difference in surgical instruments prior to assembly.
• Ability to push loaded OR case carts to and from various surgery suite locations Lifting up to instrumentation trays up to 35 pounds

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.