Sterile Processing Tech- Full Time, Evening Shifts

The following information is designed to outline the functions and position requirements of this job. It does not identify all tasks that may be expected, nor address the performance standards that must be maintained.  Essential functions may change based on organizational need. 

General Position Summary:

The primary purpose of the Sterile Processing Technician is to collect, clean, decontaminate, disinfect and/or sterilize surgical instruments, trays and packs, reusable medical devices and patient care equipment according to established standards and procedures to ensure sterile and functioning supply of materials and equipment. The Sterile Processing Technician understands microbiology and infection control standards.

Essential Functions / Major Responsibilities:

Decontaminates and sterilizes instruments, medical supplies and equipment, and assembles, wraps and sterilizes trays of instruments. Follows proper Standard Precautions while in decontamination and sterilization areas.

Monitors biological and chemical wash solution to ensure quality and consistency for decontamination of instruments and medical equipment.

Sorts mismatched sets of instruments, trays, and medical equipment and makes them available to the surgical team in a timely manner.

Performs environmental maintenance duties and assists in maintaining inventory levels in sterile processing, the operating room, and in equipment storage areas.

Document and maintain accurate sterilization records.

Inspect, assemble and test general and specialty instrumentation for proper functioning.

Perform simple maintenance on equipment (i.e.: clean filters and drains).

Verifies that equipment functions properly, requisitions for equipment maintenance, repair or replacement, and removes defective equipment.

Maintains a clean work area

Assists with maintaining established departmental policies and procedures, objectives, and quality improvement, safety, and environmental and infection control standards.

Communicates appropriately using good interpersonal skills

Displays proper etiquette and mannerisms that reflect the Shine Behavior Standards.

Promotes the Patient Safety Standards as a core value of the organization.

Secondary Functions:

Participates in 80% of departmental informational meetings and in-services, including staff meetings, and seminars.

Reviews department policies and procedures annually.

All other duties as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities:

Completes all tasks as expressed in the Skills Delineation List.

Job Scope:

This job involves:

Routine work situations.

A low level of complexity.

Operation from established and well-known procedures.

Performance of duties under moderate supervision.

Supervisory Responsibility:

None.

Interpersonal Contacts:

Contacts:

Are normally made with others within the hospital.

Are usually made with own department staff and supervisor.

Are seldom about confidential/sensitive matters.

Are usually face-to-face.

Are usually with physicians and staff, with minimal patient contact.

Specific Job Skills & Mental Activities:

This position requires knowledge of reusable surgical instrumentation, micro surgical instrumentation, and power equipment. 

Knowledge and operation of sterile processing equipment (washers, steam, gas, ultrasonic and chemical sterilizers).

Knowledge of cleaning of patient care equipment including but not limited to IV pumps, PCAs, CPM machines, Pneumatic pumps, hypo/hyperthermia units.

Knowledge of different types of sterilization materials and equipment to choose the appropriate method of sterilization for particular equipment or supplies.

Must have excellent customer service skills. Must be able to read, write, speak, and comprehend English

Education, Licensures, and/or Experience:

High School diploma or equivalent (required).

Sterile Processing Certification after one year (preferred)

CPR/BLS Certification (Required within 30 days of hire date)

One-year related experience (preferred)

Physical Demands & Job Conditions:

Light

Exert up to 20 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 lbs. of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Physical demands are in excess of those of sedentary work. Light work usually requires walking or standing to a significant degree. The worker is subject to contact with chemicals, contact with infectious fluids, and constant standing.

Physical motions include finger dexterity, standing, walking, stooping, crawling, talking, reaching, feeling, sitting, bending, kneeling, climbing, grasping, listening/hearing, handling, lifting up to 10-20 pounds, and repetitive motions of the hands, wrists, and feet.

This is considered a safety sensitive position.

OSHA Exposure Category:

OSHA Exposure Category 1

Involves exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues.