STERILIZATION TECHNICIAN

Position Summary:

Under the supervision of the Surgical Services Manager, RN Charge Nurse, and Surgical Technologist, the Processing Technician is responsible for the proper processing of equipment and instruments used in Surgical Services. Communicates regularly with Surgical team to discuss changes in schedule and instrument trays.

Areas of Responsibility:

1. Patient Care
   1. Adheres to the departmental policy and procedures pertaining to handling, decontamination and disinfecting/sterilizing of surgical equipment/instruments, thus providing quality and safe patient care.
   2. Stays current on any changes with supplies or equipment needed for performing equipment/ instrument processing.
2. Skills
   1. Demonstrates a familiarity with the equipment/instruments and items necessary for proper processing.
   2. Demonstrates knowledge of the principles of microbiology as they pertain to the containment of contamination and the cleaning/disinfection process.
   3. Reports any problems with equipment/instruments immediately or in a timely manner.
   4. Completes assigned tasks in a timely fashion so as not to disrupt the days schedule.
   5. Assists with preparing, processing and providing functioning supplies, equipment, and linen for areas and procedures assigned.
   6. Anticipates and provides supplies consistently in a timely fashion.
   7. Keeps assigned departments and areas supplied and neatly organized using systematic inventory and material control principles.
   8. Consistently keep supplies current working with departments needing supplies.
   9. Assists with the research and input and evaluation of new equipment and supplies.
   10. Contributes to the C.Q.I. and cost-containment efforts of the facility.
   11. Keeps current in areas of responsibility, safety, C.Q.I, and standing orders by attending continuing education, reading literature, and attendance at staff meetings.
   12. Recognizes need for accurate records in accordance with Protocols and guidelines of sterilization process. Maintains accurate processing logs and departmental checklists.
3. Collaboration
   1. Seeks opportunities to help other staff as available.
   2. Contributes to teamwork and spirit.
4. Work Habits
   1. Adheres to the Bill of Rights, Vulnerability and Confidentiality policies.
   2. Treats patients and all others with courtesy and respect.
   3. Assists River's Edge Hospital & Clinic to maintain compliance.
   4. Refers to Policy and Procedure Manuals found on the "G" drive.
   5. Does not abuse sick time and work break policies. Comes to work prepared to meet the daily work load.
   6. Takes calls as needed to assure instrument preparedness.