Sterile Processing Technician (SPT)

Sterile Processing Technician

The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for the complete reprocessing cycle of surgical instrumentation and medical devices. This includes the collection of soiled items, manual and mechanical cleaning, inspection for functionality, assembly of complex surgical trays, and the application of various sterilization methods. The role requires strict adherence to infection control protocols and national standards to prevent healthcare-associated infections.

Key Responsibilities

• Cleaning and decontaminating surgical instruments and equipment using manual scrubbing, ultrasonic cleaners, and automated washer-disinfectors.
• Inspecting instruments after cleaning to ensure they are free of debris, functioning correctly, and showing no signs of damage or wear.
• Assembling and wrapping surgical instrument sets and trays according to specific departmental pick sheets and surgeon preferences.
• Operating and monitoring various sterilization equipment, including steam autoclaves, ethylene oxide, and hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilizers.
• Performing and documenting biological and chemical monitoring tests to verify that sterilization parameters have been met.
• Maintaining accurate records of all sterilization loads, including lot numbers, contents, and exposure times.
• Picking and preparing surgical case carts with the necessary supplies and instruments for scheduled procedures.
• Distributing sterile supplies to the operating rooms and other clinical areas in a timely manner.
• Managing inventory levels and reporting any shortages or equipment malfunctions to department leadership.

Qualifications and Requirements

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Current certification as a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) through HSPA or a Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) through CBSPD is typically required or must be obtained within a specified timeframe of hire.
• Previous experience in a sterile processing department or a surgical setting is preferred.
• Working knowledge of medical terminology and surgical instrumentation.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow complex, multi-step technical instructions.
• Basic computer skills for data entry and tracking instrument sets through specialized software systems.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in a clinical environment with exposure to heat, humidity, and loud noise from machinery.
• Requires standing and walking for the duration of a shift, often 8 to 12 hours.
• Involves frequent lifting of heavy instrument trays (up to 40-50 lbs) and pushing or pulling large supply carts.
• Exposure to biohazardous materials and chemical disinfectants requires the consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• The department operates 24/7, requiring flexibility for evening, night, weekend, and holiday shifts.

Equal Opportunity Employer: ATC Healthcare Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regards to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status or any other category protected by Federal, State or local law. M/F/D/V EOE