CENTRAL SERVICE TECH

Job Summary:  The Certified Registered Central Service Technician ensures the effective and timely sterile processing of all surgical instruments. This role is critical in maintaining patient safety by adhering to sterilization standards, monitoring equipment functionality, and ensuring accurate documentation. The position collaborates with surgical teams to guarantee all instruments meet quality and readiness standards, supporting seamless surgical operations.

Essential Functions of the Position:           

• Maintains the cleaning, packaging, sterilizing and storing of instruments for all surgeries
  • Monitor biological tests, sterilization cycles, and documentation to ensure compliance with industry standards.
  • Cleans each item according to manufacturer’s instructions
  • Inspects all instruments for damage and defects and lubricate and sharpen as required.
  • Confirms each instrument for good working condition, in alignment, grasp
  • Sorts and arranges items into proper trays according to preference cards and protocols.
  • Wrap trays and individual items according to AAMI/ANSI guidelines and standards set by the facility.
  • Follows all Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) standards in preparing, handling, and sterilizing instruments.
  • Accurately labels each item with name and date
• Operates sterilizers, ultrasonic washer and other equipment for processing sterile items
  • Positions items correctly in sterilizer and ultrasonic washer
  • Prepares the proper cycle for each individual load, i.e. lumens, implants, plastics, etc.
  • Runs and checks indicators daily
  • Performs required biological testing on all sterilizers for implants according to manufacturer’s recommendations
  • Ensures all required preventative maintenance is performed on equipment; reports any issues with proper functioning of equipment in timely manner
• Maintains log book on sterilizers and biological
• Maintains inventory of sterile processing supplies
• Maintains instruments loaner Log
• Maintains IFU’s (follows and keep current)
• Maintains up-to-date instrument tray inventory list and tracks all repairs
• Assists room turnover when possible to expedite instruments sterilization and process
• Educates other staff member in SPD duties
• Leads in SPD-related Quality Assurance/Performance Improvement Projects

Additional Responsibilities:

• Performs other incidental and related duties as required and assigned
• Maintains all required regulatory training and participates in mandatory drills and staff meetings
• Maintains infection control policies and procedures within the unit
• Support and maintain the cleanliness of the sterile processing area.
• Follows all department policies

Physical and Mental Demands:

• Lifting and Carrying:

• Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
• For items exceeding 50 pounds, team lifting or mechanical assistance will be required in accordance with facility protocols.

• Standing and Mobility:

• Ability to stand for prolonged periods, typically 8-10 hours per shift, with intermittent walking and bending.
• Perform frequent tasks that require reaching overhead, stooping, and crouching.

• Fine Motor Skills and Repetitive Motions:

• Ability to handle delicate instruments and small parts, requiring precise hand-eye coordination.
• Perform repetitive motions as needed for cleaning, sterilizing, and organizing instruments.

• Environmental Conditions:

• Comfortable working in areas with moderate noise levels, exposure to cleaning chemicals, and temperature variations.
• May have occasional exposure to biological hazards and must follow appropriate PPE protocols.

Occupational Exposure:

• High risk exposure to bloodborne pathogens and chemical hazards.

Performance Expectations:

• Ensure compliance with infection control, sterilization protocols, and AAMI/ANSI and HSPA standards.
• Maintain accurate documentation of sterilization cycles, biological testing, and equipment maintenance.
• Monitor surgical schedules in advance to ensure instrument and supply readiness for all cases.
• Collaborate with nursing and surgical teams to address scheduling, equipment, and supply needs.
• Demonstrate professionalism and teamwork while maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

• High school graduate or GED equivalent.
• Currently certified as a Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or must obtain certification within 90 days of hire
• Maintains CEU’s and keeps certification active
• Current BLS, or completed within 90 days of hire
• Understanding of sterile processing and infection control
• Understanding of surgery housekeeping requirements to include the sterile environment