Sterile Processing - Sterile Processing Tech

SPD Tech Profession

This position receives and reprocesses reusable instruments throughout the facility. Performs cleaning and sterilizing duties. Responsible for preparing and assembling medical and surgical supplies, instrumentation, and equipment. Maintains sterile processing areas, and receives and distributes surgical supplies and equipment. Distributes reprocessed supplies and assists with pulling case carts. Assists with inventory control in surgery. Follows established protocols for cleaning, decontaminating, preparing and packaging, disinfecting or sterilizing, and storing medical and surgical supplies and equipment. Distributes medical and surgical supplies from sterile processing areas to other areas as needed. Adheres to standard precautions including the use of personal protective equipment. Follows safety procedures and manufacturer's instructions when handling cleaning solutions, supplies, and equipment. Operates equipment utilized in the sterile processing areas safely and according to manufacturer's instructions for use. Monitors, interprets, and documents results of physical, chemical, and biological indicators for all types of sterilizers used. Prepares and distributes surgical case carts according to physician's preference lists and anticipated needs. Inventories, receives, and restocks materials used for supporting sterile processing services. Complies with organizational policies, regulatory and accreditation standards, and professional guidelines. Exhibits professional interpersonal and communication skills. Assists with improving the quality of sterile processing services. Helps identify pertinent evidence to establish benchmarks as directed. Maintains privacy and confidentiality of individuals and health information. Supports the hospital mission, vision, values, policies, and procedures. Participates in required education for applicable programs. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements: The position requires sufficient auditory ability to detect and respond to various sounds, including alarms and verbal communication. Clear and effective communication is essential. Visual acuity is necessary for observing conditions, reading documentation and monitors, and distinguishing colors for clinical purposes. Tactile perception is important for assessing physical characteristics such as temperature, size, shape, or texture during care. Motor coordination is required for reaching, grasping, handling, and performing fine motor tasks necessary for using medical equipment. The position involves occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling. Walking and standing are typically continuous throughout the shift. The role requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds independently. Involves frequent pushing, pulling, carrying, or repositioning of objects or individuals weighing up to 25 pounds. May involve occasional lifting or transferring of individuals weighing over 100 pounds. Appropriate lifting techniques, mechanical aids, or team assistance are expected to ensure safety. May sit for long periods of time. Working Conditions: This position is performed primarily in an indoor healthcare environment. While the work setting is protected from outdoor weather conditions, it may be subject to variable indoor temperatures. Frequent exposure to infectious and contagious diseases, hazardous materials, and medical equipment is expected. All staff must follow appropriate safety protocols and utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) as required. The healthcare environment can be fast-paced and unpredictable. Requires the ability to respond quickly to changing circumstances, including emergency situations. Involves multiple simultaneous demands and varying levels of noise.