Operations Coordinator (Sterile Processing Lead Tech)

Job Description Summary

Coordinates workflow of department and reviews assignments to ensure efficiency. Responsible for overall department efficiency including QA reporting, orientation of new techs, education and training. Assists as staff member when needed. Performs education and training in all areas within Sterile Processing Department under the guidance of the CPD Manager which includes but is not limited to equipment, decontamination, instrument assembly, high-level disinfection, sterilization, and cart assembly. Practices and oversees compliance with Universal Precautions in preparation for disinfection or sterilization. Coordinates the assignment of tasks and helps resolve technical and operational problems. Evaluates the impact of solutions to ensure goals are achieved. Assists in planning, attending and presenting at monthly staff meetings. Provides effective direction, guidance and leadership of staff for effective teamwork and motivation and fosters the effective integration of efforts with system-wide initiatives. ***Must have 3-5 years sterile processing technician experience in acute care hospital setting*** Must agree to obtain CRCST certification if not certified.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1 - Participates in Quality Assurance/Performance Improvement program.

a - Demonstrates proper documentation of mechanical, chemical and biological controls on a daily basis for each sterilizer.

b - Participates in department QA and PI in daily operations as directed by the Manager.

c - Maintains accurate records of all sterilization processes.

d - Oversees work Quality and Performance on assigned shift.

e - Supervises the operation and effectiveness of all equipment, taking corrective action where necessary in a timely manner.

f - Verifies all required documentation performed as required by staff assigned to shift: sterilizer printouts, HLD logbooks, electronic QA and biological monitoring documentation, entries into logbooks for HLD machines within the SPD department.

g -Actively fosters open communication through conducting rounds, shift report, memos, huddles, etc.

i - Identifies areas and issues needing attention/improvement and communicates findings to Manager.

j - Actively participates in contributing ideas toward work design improvement, cost reductions, and other quality improvement activity. Actively participates in establishing Sterile Processing Department goals and quality initiatives.

2 - Identifies problems and effectively communicates to Manager in order to meet customer needs to assure overall quality of care is delivered.

a - Shift reports reflect accurate data collection. Information is given orally to the next shift as well as recorded on the shift report.

b – Completes daily assignment sheet with regard to the needs of the department and rotation of staff.

c - Works closely with Service Line Coordinators and Core Technician to ensure needed equipment is scheduled to arrive in time for cases.

d - Notifies Manager of need to make changes to prevent problems or improve customer service.

e - Responds to needs of Sterile Processing Department customers; follows through in a timely manner.

f - Keeps Sterile Processing Department Manager informed of potential/actual problems along with action plan.

g - Collaborates with other departments to meet their needs through phone calls and email as needed.

3 - Participates in ordering and inventory maintenance of Central Services supplies and equipment.

a - Assists CPD staff regarding proper care, handling and assembly of instruments and equipment.

b - Assures timely delivery of supplies and equipment to appropriate department/unit.

c - Demonstrates the ability to neatly organize all work areas for efficient and effective reprocessing.

d - Assist adequate equipment and supplies for department

e - Assist Manager in the monitoring of the repair process to maintain adequate equipment for the operating room

f - Assist OR Service Line Coordinators with creating and maintaining proper quantities of instruments and instrument kits.

4 - Technology – Embraces technological solutions to work processes and practices.

a – Remain knowledgeable of changes and additions to department practices and processes by accessing email and databases.

C – remains proficient with all aspects of the electronic asset tracking system.

b - Independently utilizes the computer to generate pick lists for case carts when additional cases are added to the surgical schedule.

c - Uses the time clock and computer to correctly enter time on and off work, such as vacation time, Float Holidays, and sick time.

5 - Safety Awareness – Fosters a “Culture of Safety” through personal ownership and commitment to a safe environment.

a - Successfully answers safety questions in annual mandatory education program.

b - Understands individual roles/responsibilities during hospital codes (e.g., Code Green, Code Red).

c - Operates all department equipment safely and continues participation in annual competency and education.

d - Knows where to find safety data sheets (SDS) for items used to perform job.

e - Follows all CDC guidelines and SSH policy for Universal Precautions when handling soiled equipment, instruments, and supplies.

f - Makes appropriate use of personal protective equipment and utilizes proper body mechanics when performing all aspects of the job.

g - Properly handles and disposes of biohazard waste by following Infection Control guidelines and hospital policy.

h - Ensures compliance to all health and safety regulations and requirements.

6 - Participates in effective human resource management within the department to achieve and maintain quality services and positive employee relations.

a – Ensure coaching is given promptly and appropriately under direction of the Manager.

b - Encourages staff development and provides recognition of accomplishments.

c - Assists CPD Manager with periodic input on the job performance of CPD employees under your supervision.

d - Demonstrates a commitment towards upholding established unit-based, departmental, and hospital-wide policies and procedures.

e - Demonstrates a commitment towards teamwork through fostering positive relationships

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Education - Preferred

Minimum education of a High School Diploma is required

CRCST preferred

Minimum Work Experience

Three to five (3-5) years in Central Services and related experience is highly desirable.
One to two (1-2) years’ supervisory experience preferred.

Required Licenses / Registrations

VDL - Valid Driver’s License

Required additional Knowledge, and Abilities

Experience in Central Services department which includes, but is not limited to, knowledge of surgical instrumentation, case cart assembly and aseptic technique preferred.
Must be able to lead others to attain department goals.
Basic computer skills required.
Must be able to communicate effectively and possess excellent customer service skills.