Sterile Processing Technician

Part-time Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – Surgery Department

Caribou Memorial Hospital is seeking a compassionate, detail-oriented part-time Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to join our Surgery Department. As a valued member of the perioperative team, you will play an essential role in supporting patients throughout their surgical experience while helping maintain a safe, efficient, and patient-centered environment.

Position Summary

The CNA – Surgery is responsible for providing high-quality patient care during the perioperative period. This role assists patients with activities of daily living, personal care, mobility, and comfort while supporting surgical operations through supply management, documentation, and sterile processing assistance.

The ideal candidate is patient-focused, organized, and committed to delivering compassionate care while contributing to a positive team environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Patient Care & Support

• Assist with patient admissions, transfers, and discharges.
• Provide assistance with hygiene, dressing, grooming, and comfort needs.
• Obtain and accurately document vital signs, weights, and intake/output measurements.
• Recognize and promptly report changes in patient condition, pain levels, or behaviors.
• Assist with meal setup, feeding, and dietary needs as appropriate.
• Support patient mobility, repositioning, ambulation, and range-of-motion activities.
• Respond promptly to patient call lights and requests.
• Maintain patient dignity, privacy, and comfort at all times.
• Provide compassionate care to terminal patients and assist with postmortem care when needed.

Surgical Services Support

• Ensure patient records are complete and documentation is entered accurately.
• Scan and upload paper documentation into the electronic medical record within 24 hours of the patient visit.
• Assist the surgical team in maintaining efficient patient flow and daily operations.
• Support surgical scheduling functions as needed.

Supply & Equipment Management

• Maintain adequate inventory levels of surgical supplies and equipment.
• Monitor assigned specialty inventory and initiate supply ordering as needed.
• Assist with updating procedure worksheets and pick lists.
• Support accurate charge capture for surgical procedures.
• Conduct routine inventory checks and communicate supply concerns to leadership.

Sterile Processing & Instrument Care

• Clean, inspect, lubricate, and prepare surgical instruments for sterilization.
• Assemble instrument trays according to established standards.
• Label sterilization supplies and maintain required documentation.
• Operate sterilization equipment and follow infection prevention protocols.
• Assist Sterile Processing staff as needed.

Environment of Care

• Maintain clean and organized patient care areas, nursing stations, and common workspaces.
• Assist with room turnover and coordinate with Environmental Services as needed.
• Identify and address safety hazards promptly.
• Follow all infection prevention and patient safety guidelines.
• Utilize mechanical lifts and patient-handling equipment appropriately.

Teamwork & Communication

• Foster positive working relationships with patients, families, providers, and coworkers.
• Communicate effectively regarding patient needs, status changes, and operational updates.
• Assist with clerical duties, phone calls, and department communications.
• Participate in team meetings, education, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Support departmental goals and contribute to a collaborative work environment.

What We're Looking For

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Compassion and respect for patients and families
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Attention to detail and organizational abilities
• Commitment to patient safety and quality care
• Professionalism, integrity, and accountability
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced team environment
• Flexibility and willingness to assist where needed

Work Environment

This position is based in a hospital setting and requires frequent walking, standing, bending, lifting, and patient assistance activities. Employees may be exposed to:

• Blood and bodily fluids
• Infectious diseases and contagious illnesses
• Medical equipment and sterilization chemicals
• Latex and cleaning products
• Unpredictable patient and visitor behaviors

Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety protocols are provided and required.

Why Join Caribou Memorial Hospital?

At Caribou Memorial Hospital, our team is committed to providing exceptional care close to home. We value teamwork, compassion, integrity, and service excellence. If you are looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives while working alongside a dedicated surgical team, we encourage you to apply.

Apply today and become an essential part of our Surgery Department team.