Technician, Central Sterile

Overview

The Sterile Processing Instrument Technician inspects, decontaminates, disinfects, sterilizes, and assembles surgical/patient care re-usable instruments and /or equipment, following prescribed procedures and techniques documented in the Central Sterile Policy and Procedure Manual, in accordance with manufacturer recommendations. He/she is also responsible for collection of soiled instrumentation from various units and redistribution of sterilized items.

Responsibilities

• Operate peracetic acid (gas plasma) Sterrad sterilizers, pre-vacuum and gravity steam sterilizers, washer/disinfectors, scope washers, and ultrasonic cleaner according to manufacturer’s specifications.
• Maintain accurate records of the sterilization processes and parameters associated with the sterilization cycles.
• Regulate and adjust sterilization parameters as to cycle selection, cycle pressure, cycle time and temperature.
• Performs biological and chemical monitoring tests on all sterilizers and High Level Disinfectors by policy and AAMI standards. Is able to interpret and maintains accurate records of the results.
• Inspect sterilized packages and trays for damage or wet packs and takes any corrective action, prior to transporting to the operating room or other areas in accordance with the hospital Event-Related Sterility Policy.
• Assemble and performs quality control checks for all instrument trays used for surgery – tray is always assembled utilizing the most current count sheet and placement of the appropriate indicator for sterilizer type.
• Reprocesses instruments and equipment according to establish guidelines. Operates washer/sterilizers, autoclaves and sterile machines. Decontaminates instrument trays. Cleans sterilizers and maintains sterilization records. Flows appropriate techniques for the care and handling of special instruments and scopes.
• Promote a safe environment for self and team members through use of personal protective equipment and Adheres to Universal Blood Borne Pathogen Precautions. Keeps work area clean and orderly, maintaining a quiet and attentive work environment
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Extended course work in sterilization techniques required.

Experience:

• Minimum six (6) months experience preferred.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Must display good inter and intra-departmental communications skills.
• Must be able to make good sound decisions based on the criterion set forth in the Hospital’s Policy and Procedure Manual.
• Able to develop an acute sense for detail in every aspect of Sterile Processing.
• Knowledge of surgical instrumentation and medical/surgical supplies.
• Knowledge of decontamination procedures for all types of instrumentation and equipment.
• Knowledge of instrument tray assembly and appropriate packaging materials.
• Knowledge of decontamination procedures for all types of instrumentation and equipment.
• Knowledgeable of medical and surgical supplies used throughout the hospital.
• Knowledge of inventory control and proper use and handling of supplies equipment and instrumentation for cost effective use.
• Knowledgeable of and adheres to AAMI, AORN, O.S.H.A. and JCAHO regulations relating directly to Central Service.
• Ability to fully utilize BHMC’s electronic record systems, equipment and other healthcare and billing systems relevant to this position.

Licenses, Certifications:

• Certification as a CRCST through IAHCSMM, or as a CSPDT through CBSPD.
• Must accumulate the appropriate number of relevant CEUs for recertification prior to expiration of current certification.

Physical Requirements:

• Consistent with that necessary to work in a variety of patient care and office settings.
• Position requires prolonged periods of standing, reaching, walking throughout the working day. 
• Position will be required to stoop, bend, lift, and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees, and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of The Brookdale Hospital Medical Center.

BHMC is an equal opportunity employer, it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, marital status, military status, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability or handicap or other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.