Staff Education Specialist, Sterile Processing

HOMEBASE:

Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston Salem

Schedule: Full time, First Shift

JOB SUMMARY:

Responsible for overseeing the training of new employees, continuous assessment and continuing education of staff skills in the decontamination, assembly, sterilization, and storage of surgical instrumentation.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

High school diploma or GED with five years' experience in Sterile Processing or completion of an accredited Sterile Processing certificate program with three years' experience in Sterile Processing.

LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION, and/or REGISTRATION:

Certification as a Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT), or Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST), or other sterile processing certification required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Oversees orientation and training of all new employees and continuing education for all employees.

2. Demonstrates expert skill and knowledge in central sterile processing, incorporating developmental, cultural and ethical considerations. Acts as a resource for staff members.

3. Provides education to staff on regulatory standards and compliance, current clinical practice issues, and safety standards.

4. Maintains and updates all orientation manuals and skills checklists.

5. Creates individualized training plan for all new employees. Conducts weekly assessments of new employees and adjusts orientation training schedule as needed.

6. Assesses competency of preceptors to ensure they have the knowledge and skill to assist with orientation of new employees.

7. Provides re-education to employees as performance issues arise.

8. Coordinates in-service schedule for new instruments, continuing education, etc.

9. Maintains the in-service records and ensures that all staff receive the necessary information.

10. Adjusts schedule to work with all employees on all shifts to ensure training needs are met and supported. Demonstrates ability to work pre-arranged weekend, night, and evening hours.

11. Communicates with SPD Manager regarding any educational needs or issues.

12. Liaisons with OR Clinical Education Resource Team and assists with OR staff education as needed.

13. Protects self, co-workers and facility by following approved policies and procedures to prevent the spread of bloodborne and/or airborne disease(s)

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

Excellent oral and written communication skills Proficient in Microsoft Office Demonstrates ability to assess the need for, plan, implement and evaluate high-quality, cost-effective educational programs for staff. Ability to operate equipment such as the steam sterilizer, low temperature sterilizers, ultrasonic washers, and washer decontaminators

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Exposure to hazards associated with bodily fluids and tissue Regular exposure to the risk of blood borne diseases Exposure to chemical agents used in cleaning Exposure to hazards of steam and heat, may be subject to burns Loud stressful environment due to equipment and high demands Subject to varying and unpredictable situations Subject to many interruptions Occasional pressure due to multiple calls and inquiries