JOB SUMMARY: Provides 24/7 strategic leadership, direction, support, accountability, and management of the OR Sterile Processing Department (OR SPD) including decontamination processes and sterile processing in compliance with applicable regulatory standards. Reviews and evaluates department performance reports, usage reports and other fiscal documents for adherence to hospital goals and directives. Also responsible for quality and functional excellence and assists the Associate Director for OR Sterile Processing in accomplishing strategic and operational objectives.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts Degree required. Ability to manage the day-to-day operations of a busy healthcare central sterile/sterile processing department; ability to work in a fast-paced, constantly changing environment on a daily basis. Expert knowledge in sterilization and high-level disinfection processes. Able to communicate and problem solve using critical thinking. Experience with developing strong team environment and a role model for training and teaching in the clinical setting.

LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION, and/or REGISTRATION: Active certification in sterile processing/central sterile via CBSPD or IAHCSMM is required. Additional certification for SPD Management/Leadership it must be obtained within 12 months of hire.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Supervises OR SPD technicians and OR SPD staff to achieve established operational performance and quality goals. Manages all collection, decontamination, assembly, sterilization, high-level disinfection, distribution and inventory management of equipment, supplies, and sets managed by OR SPD.
• Presents applicable and relevant sterile processing information and data to senior leadership, physicians, clinicians, and staff in timely and efficient manner. Proactively works with OR personnel including surgeons, Clinical Coordinators and OR administration to improve processes and workflow related to OR SPD.
• Recommends and manages modifications to established policies and procedures, objectives, quality assurance, safety, environmental and infection prevention standards as applicable to OR SPD.
• Analyzes inventory reports and surplus inventory lists to determine the need for improvement in control methods, and directs the initiation of corrective measures to restore satisfactory inventory balance and investment. Provides proactive recommendations to tray configuration changes and changes to instrumentation inventory levels.
• Utilizes instrument tracking system to effectively manage the flow of work within the department, evaluate employees, and track inventory data.
• Ensures optimal sterile processing performance through quality control and quality assurance of all OR SPD activities and equipment. Assures departmental standards of operation and policies are in compliance with regulatory and professional agencies, including but not limited to CMS, TJC, AAMI, AORN and APIC. Recommends equipment changes, upgrades and additions to meet manufacturer's instructions for use (IFU) for all items processed.
• Maintains continued education and proficiency in the field of Sterile Processing operations and equipment through education, literature and seminars. Serves as a technical expert regarding product reprocessing, decontamination, and sterilization for the Medical Center. Demonstrates correct department processes and procedures to staff.
• Develops a comprehensive departmental orientation for new staff. Routinely coordinates training and competency validation for all staff. Ensures staff work is performed within prescribed technical and safety standards. Provides or coordinates instructions and in-service on new products, procedures and equipment to maintain patient and staff safety. Ensures staff attends technical and mandatory training/education.
• Schedules staff and work to ensure cases have instrumentation when needed. Monitors and adheres to labor and expense budgets. Maintains reports in appropriate cycles for department performance and staff attendance.
• Provides on-going and effective communication with physicians, hospital/clinic department management, staff and vendor representatives. Represents OR SPD department by attending appropriate department meetings.
• Protects self, co-workers and facility by following approved policies and procedure to prevent the spread of bloodborne and/or airborne diseases(s).
• Provides annual performance reviews to leaders and staff. Able to write and deliver corrective action to leaders/staff.
• Assists Associate Director for OR Sterile Processing in major project initiatives and makes decisions on behalf of the department in the absence of the Associate Director.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS

Possesses excellent oral and written communication skills

Strong decision making skills, ability to analyze and solve problems

Skill in developing and maintaining interpersonal relationships as required in the surgical services environment

Extensive knowledge regarding instrumentation/processing/sterilization and case carts

Basic knowledge of surgical procedures and the instruments necessary for high volume procedures

Ability to plan and organize a substantial workload

Skill in coaching, counseling and developing the functional and supervisory skills of others

Ability to cope well under emergency and stressful conditions.

Ability to converse and interact with various health care professionals

Strong analytical and budgeting skills

A proven (and documented) track record of success in the field of Sterile Processing

Leadership skills to motivate and encourage the team to work together to complete tasks and active company goals

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Clean, well-lit, comfortable climate

Occasional pressure due to multiple calls and inquiries

Works with confidential information

Subject to stressful conditions

Handles absentee replacement on short notice

Moderate noise environment

Handles emergency or crisis situations

Subject to many interruptions

Occasionally subject to irregular hours

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Medical specialties:

• Medical-Surgical
• Surgery

Schedule:

• 12 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• Sterile Processing: 3 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• CBSPD or IAHCSMM (Required)

Work Location: In person