Sterile Processing Technician

JOB PURPOSE:

The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for decontamination, cleaning, processing, and sterilization of surgical instrumentation, supplies and equipment, reassembly and wrapping of instrument sets, proper use of sterilizers, sonic cleaners and other related equipment and maintaining a clean safe workplace. The tech will work as a team member within the entire facility. Performs other duties as assigned. Any position that has direct patient care is considered to be safety sensitive by Avem Health Partners’ standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Performs decontamination of soiled instruments, sterilization containers and equipment according to established protocols.
• Inspects instruments, equipment, and containers to assure cleanliness and proper functioning.
• Corrects instrument sets according to current standards and established count sheets and/or instrument tracking systems.
• Ability to communicate using written, verbal, non-verbal skills when interacting with staff and physicians and ancillary departments.
• Maintains proper levels of inventory.
• Collects instruments at the end of each case for cleaning and sterilization.
• Ensures that counters and equipment surfaces in the nursing and instrument areas surrounding the OR are free of dust.
• Arranges instruments and supplies in convenient manner in appropriate storage areas.
• Works in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.
• Ability to set priorities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Behavioral Standards

• The individual must support the mission, vision, and goals of Avem Health Partners and serve as a role model within the company.
• Exhibit positive customer service behavior in everyday work interactions.
• Demonstrate a courteous and respectful attitude to internal workforce and external customers.
• Communicate accurately and appropriately.
• Handle difficult situations in a discreet and professional manner.
• Hold self-accountable for professional practice.
• Interact and cope effectively with diverse populations in stressful situations resulting from trauma and illness.
• Participate in performance improvement activities utilizing principles to support and improve patient care.
• Demonstrate knowledge of unit goals and is active in committees and projects to achieve these goals.
• Keep current with literature regarding changing practices, interventions, and best practices in patient care.
• Assume responsibility for seeking out educational and professional opportunities for personal learning needs and growth as well as meeting mandatory education requirements.
• Act as a preceptor as requested.
• Demonstrate excellent work attendance and attend and actively participate in a variety of meetings and training sessions as required.
• Adhere to the Avem Health Partners Code of Conduct and Standards of Behavior. Complies with established policies and procedures and all health and safety requirements.

EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATION/LICENSURE:

• High School Graduate or equivalent.
• Current BLS.

EXPERIENCE:

• 1 year of Sterile Processing Technician Experience.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duties satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Such accommodations must be requested by the employee/applicant to be considered.
• This job requires visual abilities, auditory abilities, must be intact to perform duties.
• Constant standing is required.
• Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds.
• Must be able to assist with patient transfer.
• Must be physically able to use transfer devices and handle surgical equipment as needed.