Sterile Processing Technician

Responsible for cleaning, assembling, packaging and sterilizing all surgical instruments and equipment from all areas of the health care facility as well as the operation of the sterilization and decontamination equipment and performs routine efficacy tests on equipment.  Follows established infection control practices and adheres by Hospital and regulatory standards to ensure patient safety.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge disassembling, assembling, identifying instruments by name; ensures instruments are thoroughly inspected for sharpness, functionality and integrity.
• Demonstrates knowledge of packaging techniques; wrapping/containers and use of appropriate package according to size, proper labeling of contents, proper sealing of packages (tape, heat seal or container locks), an appropriate internal integrator in each package, proper safeguarding of items needing protection in packaging (scissor ends, delicate instruments, etc.).  Ensures the correct set label is affixed on the appropriate pack/container.
• Exhibits knowledge in determining the methods to be use to care for instruments:  handwashing, mechanical washing or high-level disinfection, especially in removal of protein and corrosion and in the sorting for repair.
• Thoroughly disassembles instruments for cleaning and ensures all bio-burden material is removed.  Inspects important points in instruments and equipment to ensure they are functioning properly and there is no damage.
• Demonstrates knowledge of the function and operation of the decontamination equipment for optimum cleaning, loading, temperature and troubleshooting if malfunctions.
• Monitors quality control and identifies quality problems and proactively corrects them prior to the product leaving the department.  Performs biological monitoring to ensure quality and efficacy of the sterilization equipment.  Ensures all instruments and decontamination equipment are tested for bioburden residual.  Participates in a proactive quality assurance program randomly auditing sample trays following established protocol documenting failures to ensure quality on the end product.
• Ensures that all records and documentation are properly compiled and maintained (such as sterilization records, temperature recordings, etc.).
• Demonstrates the ability to perform and interpret efficacy test results for the sterilization process, low temperature, high level disinfection and washer decontaminators.
• Understand protocols for releasing instrumentation after sterilization and completes all required tests and documentation before a tray is released for use.  Follows up if there are variations in the process.
• Ensures the integrity of packages has not been compromised before it is transferred to the delivery carts.  Removes packages that have visible damage and returns them to be reprocessed.
• Demonstrates knowledge and practice of stock rotation when restocking shelves in SPD to facilitate the first-in/first-out inventory control system.  Organizes the shelf before restocking new products.  Assist in taking physical inventory according to departmental procedures.
• Demonstrates skill and knowledge regarding equipment functioning, testing and accessories.  Efficiently cleans and assembles correspondent parts on mobile patient equipment to prepare for dispensing.
• Actively participates in maintaining established departmental policies and procedures, objectives, and quality improvement, safety, and environmental and infection control standards.
• Can precept team members in learning surgical instrumentation or designated tasks in Sterile Processing.
• Conducts him/herself in strict conformance to applicable laws and Hospitals' policies governing confidential information.  This includes but is not limited to information related to the following:  Patients (such as records, conversations, admittance information, patient financial information, etc.).
• Demonstrates flexibility in thinking and actions, understanding team dynamics.
• Attends educational programs to comply with mandated State continuing education hours to enhance knowledge, skills and competency related to instrument processing, infection control, patient safety, quality improvement, regulatory and OSHA standards.
• Informs team leader/manager of any discrepancies.
• Performs other related duties.

REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS

EXPERIENCE

• One (1) year of experience in Sterile Processing and/or surgical instrument reprocessing preferred.

EDUCATION

• High school diploma or equivalent.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS

• Either:
• IAHCSMM - International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management; or CBSPD - Certification Board of Sterile Processing and Distribution.
• If not certified, must attain certification status within 18 months of employment.

OTHER

• Must be able to read, write, communicate, and follow written and oral instruction in English language.
• Position may require flexible work schedule, weekends and holidays.
• Basic computer skills.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, exercise creativity, be attentive to detail, and maintain a positive attitude.
• Must maintain confidentiality of all medical, patient, and legal information.
• Ability to properly distinguish color.
• Ability to handle difficult situations involving patients, physicians, or others in a professional manner.