Sterile Processing Technician

Under the supervision of the Infection Control Officer and as a member of the medical team, the Sterile Supply Technician is responsible for performing a variety of functions from decontamination, to cleaning, inspection, assembly, sterilization, and distribution of various instruments and equipment according to the manufacturer’s instructions for use (IFU). Assumes responsibility for operating and maintaining ultrasonic washer, washer sterilizer, steam autoclave, and all other processing services and supplies.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Performs all aspects of daily work in a manner which contributes to and ensures an environment of patient safety.
• Prepares supplies and equipment needed for patient care while following standards for labeling of packages and containers.
• Collaborates with Medical Assistant floor leads to maintain adequate par levels of instruments, both common stock and special order items, in a cost-effective manner.
• Assembles and packages instruments for sterilization following practice that is in compliance with JC, AORN, AAMI, and APIC standards.
• Performs decontamination procedures according to prescribed specifications in a safe and cost-effective manner. Prewashes and disassembles instruments for processing according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
• Addresses damage/repair of instruments upon arrival into decontamination area and reports activities to supervisor. Reports equipment malfunctions to supervisor.
• Responsible for monitoring all of the sterilization processes that affect the achievement of sterility—the mechanical, chemical, and biological tests, as well as procedures for traceability.
• Operates ultrasonic, washer-disinfector, and steam autoclave and performs weekly and monthly checks and sanitizing as appropriate.
• Performs and documents routine safety checks and cleaning of equipment in appropriate logs. Properly maintains all equipment and keeps work area clean and orderly.
• Correctly packages and wraps supplies and instruments.
• Inspect instruments prior to distribution on the floors/sites for function, defects, cleanliness, and overall condition.
• Assists in other areas of the department and performs additional duties as necessary.
• Maintains adequate documentation on logs for sterilizers, washers, spore testing, and biological and chemical tests.
• Responsible for the efficient supply, storage, maintenance, and adequate disinfection at the point of use of all instruments used in all clinic sites/areas.
• Trains and orients medical assistant staff in proper sterilization as appropriate.
• Maintains familiarity with Fenway Health policies and procedures
• Adheres to medical department standards for attendance and professional dress
• Helps maintain a patient-centered, professional work environment
• Performs related duties as required

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Certified Registered Central Sterile Technician (CRCST) and/or Certified Sterile Processing Department Technician (CSPDT) or ability to become certified within three months of hire date
• Willingness to work any shift FH is open as needed, including evenings, for coverage purposes
• Detail-oriented and highly organized
• Able to work autonomously while exercising safe judgment and decision-making
• Responds in a positive manner to constructive criticism
• Ability to work as a team member
• Effective skills in the areas of service, teamwork, communication, respect for others, and time/priority management
• Able to multitask and function in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work harmoniously with diverse groups of individuals
• Ability to deal effectively with stress relating to the changing organizational, personnel, and healthcare environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Vocational or Technical training in central processing
• 1 year of related work experience
• Successful completion of Nursing Assistant or Medical Assistant Program or comparable experience
• Experience working with an ethnically, culturally and racially diverse work staff