Certified Sterile Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary:

Decontaminates and prepares for sterilization all trays, instrumentation and equipment used at the Center. Reprocesses instrumentation between cases in a timely manner. Maintains pack cart. Performs regular equipment checks such as autoclave QI program, and maintains records/logs. Assists in moving and positioning of patients, as time allows. Responsible for maintaining a clean and safe environment, particularly in turn-over of the surgery suites between cases, assisting with terminal cleaning at the end of the schedule.

Key Areas of Responsibility:

• Washes/decontaminates and assures presence of all instrumentation in tray, prepares for processing and correctly labels all instruments and trays used at Center.
• Prepares for safe processing and storage of small or peel-pouched supplies.
• Demonstrates knowledge of cleaning and processing methods, according to AORN standards and manufacturer recommendations, all types of instruments and equipment utilized within the Center for sterilization.
• Demonstrates proficiency in utilization of equipment such as autoclave, Steris, and ultrasonic cleaner, according to AORN standards, Center policy/procedures and manufacturer's recommendations.
• Demonstrated ability to process instruments efficiently and properly between cases and at end of schedule
• Returns sterile trays, instruments and equipment to their proper storage location after processing.
• Regularly checks trays, instrumentation and sterile equipment for outdate or compromised package integrity.
• Maintains pack cart, communicating restocking needs appropriately and restocking cart when delivery received.
• Performs daily/weekly Quality Assurance testing and maintains documentation/logs.
• Assists clinical staff with maintenance of physician preference cards, pick lists, and instrument inventory / count sheets.
• Assists with the picking of cases accurately and completely.
• Communicates need to order any supplies needed for QA or processing functions.
• Performs some housekeeping duties, as assigned, such as maintenance of the scrub sink areas in a safe and clean order by regularly mopping floor, cleaning sinks, and emptying trash as needed throughout the day.
• Distributes packs to be processed for sterility.
• Assists visitors, staff and physicians, utilizing good guest relations.
• Acts as a resource person to staff regarding instrumentation and processing equipment and techniques.
• Adheres to OSHA guidelines for Universal Precautions for exposure to blood and body fluids at all times, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Follows AORN Recommended Practices and Center policies at all times.
• Participates in the orientation of new employees, students and other approved program
• Participates in Center Quality Improvement Program activities including identification of aspects of care, collection and analysis of data, implementation of a plan for improvement and evaluation of the process.
• Attends Center staff and unit meetings and educational opportunities.
• Maintains all required certifications (BLS). Performs effectively in emergency situations.
• Prioritizes job responsibilities to facilitate efficient and optimum patient care.
• Demonstrates ability to work efficiently in a busy environment, giving attention to details.
• Demonstrates flexibility in meeting the needs of the unit and the Center.
• Maintains patient confidentiality at all times.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• High school diploma or equivalent required. Certification in sterile stores processing preferred.
• Demonstrated interpersonal communication skills required to facilitate effective interaction with a variety of health care professionals.
• Significant prior knowledge and experience working with surgical instrumentation and equipment required.
• Prior experience working with an instrument tray system and sterile wrapping techniques (single and double wrapping, peel pouches) required.
• Ability to work with a minimum of supervision and to organize work in order of importance, prioritizing to achieve unit and Center goals.
• Familiarity with medical terminology preferred or required to complete a course in medical terminology. Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and percentages.

Job Type: Full-Time, 40 hours

Schedule: (4) 10-hour shifts starting at 8:00 AM, no weekends!

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) Matching
• Short Term Disability insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Health Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Assistance Program