JOB SUMMARY

Performs decontamination, cleaning, assembling, packaging, sterilization, storage and distribution of reusable surgical instrumentation and equipment. Cleans the OR suites and terminally cleans suites as assigned as well as other assigned cleaning areas. Practices the SJH Corporate Compliance program and participates in Performance Improvement activities. Ability to operate technical, constantly changing equipment. Learns and understands medical terminology use. Performs other duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Decontamination, Sterilization and Assembly 

• Decontaminates and sterilizes instruments. 
• Assembles, wraps and sterilizes trays of instruments. 
• Follows proper Standard Precautions while in decontamination and sterilization areas. Utilizes appropriate PPE. 
• Loads autoclave and handles sterilized instruments following principles of sterilization. 
• Sorts mismatched sets of instruments, trays and medical equipment. 
• Identifies instruments with their given name, utilizing appropriate resources. 
• Follows correct inventory sheet for assembly
• Makes them available to sterile processing customers in a timely manner

2. Documentation, Policy and Procedures

• Monitors biological and chemical indicators to ensure quality and consistency for decontamination of instruments.
• Performs tests for all autoclaves prior to use at the beginning of the day. 
• Identifies when a cycle is aborted or Sterilizer malfunctions and follows procedure for correction. 
• Assist with maintaining established departmental policies and procedures, objectives and quality improvement, safety and environmental/infection control standards

3. Inventory Checks and Equipment Safety

• Restocks, labels and maintains inventory, submits requisitions, collects and distributes instruments, implants and trays.
• Performs environmental maintenance duties and assists in maintaining inventory levels in sterile processing, the operating room and in supply storage areas. 
• Verifies that instruments/equipment functions properly. 
• Places requisitions for maintenance, repair or replacement. 
• Removes defective instruments and equipment from service.

4. Endoscopes

• Processes flexible endoscopes according to manufacturer recommendations: leak test, brushing channels, irrigating with enzymatic detergent, etc.
• Works with Endoscopy Tech to ensure equipment needs are met and facilitates communication of equipment issues or concerns to OR UC/OR Materials Coordinator.

5. Communication

• Good interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills. 
• Attention to detail and ability to write legibly. 
• Performs and adapts to frequently changing environment and departmental needs. 
• Must be able to work quickly, accurately and efficiently. 
• Acts as a runner for Clinicians.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Education: NA

Minimum Work Experience: Basic computer skills required. Communicates effectively and professional. 

Required Licenses: Must have, or obtain within one year, Central Sterile Supply Processing Technician Certificate. BLS required with in the first 90 days of employment. 
FUNCTIONAL DEMANDS
Working Conditions: 
Hospital surgery suites. Stressful situations, frequent interruptions, irregular hours, exposure to high temperatures from autoclaves, crowded conditions, exposure to fumes and chemicals. Irregular meals and breaks. Must be reachable by phone during call shifts and have a one hour response time. Must be on-site at the SJH campus or other facilities to fulfill the responsibilities of this role.
Physical Requirements:
Requires a lot of sitting/standing for prolonged periods, frequently walking and reaching (overhead, extensive, repetitive). Must be able to lift 50 pounds. Ability to move patients as needed. Must be able to pass color-blindness test.