Sterile Processing Tech I

Sterile Processing Tech I

This position receives and reprocesses reusable instruments throughout the hospital, performs cleaning and sterilizing duties. Responsible for preparing and assembling medical and surgical supplies, instrumentation, and equipment, maintaining the sterile processing areas, and receiving and distributing surgical supplies and equipment. They will distribute reprocessed supplies, assist with pulling case carts and assist with inventory control in surgery.

Responsibilities include following established protocols for cleaning, decontaminating, preparing and packaging, disinfecting or sterilizing, and storing medical and surgical supplies and equipment. Distribute medical and surgical supplies from sterile processing areas to other areas within the facility or health care organization as needed. Adhere to standard precautions including the use of personal protective equipment. Follow safety procedures and manufacturer's instructions when handling cleaning solutions, supplies and equipment. Operate equipment utilized in the sterile processing areas safely and according to the manufacturer's instructions for use. Monitor, interpret, and document results of physical, chemical and biological indicators for all types of sterilizers used in the sterile processing areas. Prepare and distribute surgical case carts according to physician's preference lists and anticipated needs of the perioperative team. Inventory, receive, and restock materials used for supporting sterile processing services. Comply with organizational policies, regulatory and accreditation standards, and professional guidelines. Exhibit professional interpersonal and communication skills. Assist with improving the quality of sterile processing services. Assist with identifying pertinent evidence to establish benchmarks as directed. Maintain privacy and confidentiality of individuals and health information. The employee supports the hospital mission, vision, values, policies, and procedures. Participates in required education for DNV programs as applicable to position (reference program education curriculum). Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications for Tech I include a high school graduate or GED. Preferred completion of a Sterile Processing Technician Program. Licenses/certifications/registrations are not required but a Sterile Processing Technician Certificate is preferred. Experience is not required but previous sterile processing experience is preferred.

Physical requirements include sufficient auditory ability to detect and respond to various sounds, including patient alarms and verbal communication. Clear and effective communication is essential, as is the ability to interact with patients, families, and healthcare team members. Visual acuity is necessary for observing patient conditions, reading documentation and monitors, and distinguishing colors for clinical purposes, such as identifying medications or safety indicators. Tactile perception is also important for assessing physical characteristics such as temperature, size, shape, or texture during patient care. Motor coordination is required for reaching, grasping, handling, and performing fine motor tasks necessary for the use of medical equipment and procedures. The position also involves occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling when assisting patients or accessing equipment. Walking and standing are typically continuous throughout the shift. The role requires the ability to lift to 50 pounds independently and involves frequent pushing, pulling, carrying, or repositioning of objects or patients weighing up to 25 pounds. There may also be occasional lifting or transferring of individuals weighing over 100 pounds, with the expectation that appropriate lifting techniques, mechanical aids, or team assistance will be used to ensure safety. May sit for long periods of time.

Working conditions involve frequent exposure to infectious and contagious diseases, hazardous materials, and medical equipment, with the expectation that all staff follow appropriate safety protocols and utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) as required. The health care environment can be fast-paced and unpredictable, requiring the ability to respond quickly to changing circumstances, including high-pressure or emergency situations. The work setting also involves multiple simultaneous demands and varying levels of noise due to medical equipment, staff activity, and patient needs.