Sterile Processing Technician (Certified)

Sterile Processing Technician

Pay range: $25.87/hr - $36.22/hr plus $1.75/hr evening shift differential

The Sterile Processing Technician performs routine maintenance and preparation of instruments, supplies and equipment requiring decontamination and sterilization in a medical facility by following recommended best practices. Facilitates and coordinates availability of instrumentation and supplies in support of perioperative service. Acts as a liaison between perioperative departments.

Key Responsibilities

Performed majority of the time:

• Utilizes SPM (Sterile Processing Management) system for tracking and recording of surgical instrumentation sterilization processes and Surgical Case Carts.
• Maintains accurate records of equipment function.
• Appropriately operates equipment including, but not limited to cart washers, ultrasonic, sterilizers, computers and telephones. Trouble shoots routine problems, performs routine maintenance.
• Performs all assignments within Sterile Processing, with minimal or no supervision.
• Communicates effectively with surgical personnel and acts as liaison between surgery and sterile processing department.
• Maintains inventory of sterile supplies and equipment in departments.
• Restocks code carts according to par levels and current supply list and documents on code cart log.
• Evaluates and addresses needs lists to ensure complete and timely case carts to Surgical Services.
• Monitors and maintains working order of surgical instruments. Follows department protocol to send instruments for repair in a timely manner.
• Works with Business Manager, Inventory Specialist and OR Service Line Coordinators for supply placement.
• Secures department and turns off equipment before closing department each day.
• Conducts rounds on designated nursing units to gather equipment for reprocessing
• Follows current manufacturer's Instructions for Use (IFU's) to sterilize and maintain sterile supplies and instruments.
• Provides perioperative Services, Birth Center and various clinics with clean, complete and sterile instrument sets to use in procedures.
• Prepares complete sterile and non-sterile trays for use in nursing and other patient care departments.
• Prioritizes and coordinates instrument and supply availability with surgery requirements.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Willingly shares knowledge and identifies opportunities for betterment of the team.

Performed occasionally but critical to successful performance of the job:

• Participates in continuing education programs to maintain and improve skill level.
• Attends and participates in staff meetings.
• Welcomes and assists in the training, orientation and onboarding of new team members
• Supports efforts, as needed, house wide to improve patient care.

Decision making and budget responsibilities (e.g. impact limited to the employee, entire unit or organization-wide):

• Decision impact limited to the employee.
• Maintain fiscal responsibility in areas that are under their control. (Including but not limited to incremental OT, supply waste etc.)

Job Specifications

Education:

Required

N/A

Preferred

High school graduation or completion of GED. Approved organization or college for Sterile Processing certification training.

Experience:

Required

Computer/email, office, tracking software (SPM) experience.

Preferred

One (1) year hospital sterile processing experience.

Licenses, Certifications and/or Registrations:

Required

Current Sterile Processing Technician certification CRCST or CBSPD required within nine (9) months of hire.

Job Related Skills, Abilities and Behaviors:

Required

Knowledge of the function, care and handling of instruments and flexible scopes. Following the organizational code of conduct, and any applicable policies and procedures for the position. Ability to effectively multi-task and prioritize in stressful situations. Strong interpersonal communication skills. Maintains professional composure and ability to problem solve collaboratively during times of stress. Maintains focus on the safety of the patient. Understands the importance of consistency and accountability to the perioperative team. Uses effective and respectful communication skills to ensure accurate understanding. Speaks, writes and understands English. Functions well as part of a team. Uses appropriate problem-solving methods to deal with conflict maintaining focus on the issue. Follows directions accurately and completely. Prioritizes multiple tasks and requests in stressful situations. Knowledge of basic medical terminology. Excellent customer service. Demonstrates safe and accurate use of equipment and machinery. Uses proper cleaners and disinfectants according to manufacturer's IFU's.

Preferred

Bilingual skills a plus.