Sterile Processing - Sterile Processing Tech

Surgical Technologist / Sterile Processing Technologist

The Surgical Technologist is responsible for the delivery of care to surgical patients. They contribute to the efficient function of the Surgery Department. The role includes instructing medical students, nurses, technicians, and in some cases, patients and their families about the technical aspects of surgery. The Sterile Processing Technologist is primarily responsible for the cleanliness and proper care of surgical equipment used in the operating room. This position is critical as it serves as the first line of defense against transferable infection and faulty equipment.

Essential Job Duties for Surgical Technologist:

• Pick instrument sets and other appropriate instrumentation based on the proposed surgery, possible complications, and the preferences of the surgeon.
• Check the operating room for necessary equipment.
• Scrub, gown, and glove self and team members for the procedure.
• Drape the patient or assist the surgeon with draping according to approved methods.
• Handle instruments correctly to assure their proper functioning.
• Ensure that proper techniques and practices are maintained in the operating room.
• Maintain a vigilant stance on sterile techniques and call attention to any breaches.
• Count sponges and sharps with the circulating nurse before and after surgery.
• Anticipate the surgeon's needs to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Assist with cleanup before and after procedures.
• Prepare for subsequent procedures.
• Act as the first assistant to the surgeon as needed.
• Identify and properly preserve specimens received during surgery.
• Keep the supervisor informed of progress and changes regarding instrumentation and equipment in the operating room.
• Notify staff of surgery schedule changes.
• Assist in training and educating new personnel.
• Restock supplies according to established inventory levels.
• Report servicing and maintenance needs of surgical equipment and instrumentation.
• Follow procedures for transporting and receiving preoperative patients.
• Show a willingness to expand knowledge through journals, individual study, and continuing education opportunities.
• Be open to working different shifts, taking calls, and working weekends as needed.
• Attend departmental staff meetings to enhance communication and education about needed changes and policies.
• Respect patients' rights to privacy and confidentiality.
• Follow the chain of command to report pertinent information.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Job Duties for Sterile Processing Technologist:

• The Sterile Processing Technologist is trained to understand all surgical equipment functions and uses. This role is essential for facilitating surgical procedures and ensuring they run smoothly.
• They must follow sterilization guidelines meticulously, as most equipment must be decontaminated before use.
• Responsibilities include checking equipment for defects, purging waste from devices, and cleaning and sterilizing tools according to protocols.
• They organize inventory and maintain supply levels in sterile storage areas.
• Duties also involve stocking crash carts and distributing instruments to the surgery department and other areas as needed.
• Operating and monitoring sterilization tools such as steam autoclaves and sonic washers is required.
• Organize surgical instrument trays and record sterilizer test results.
• Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Qualifications:

• Successful graduation from a surgical technologist training program or a minimum of one year of experience in operating room scrub roles may be considered.
• Thorough knowledge of handling tissue specimens, cultures, and smears is essential.
• Excellent understanding of various instruments and the proper setup of the operating room is required.
• Candidates must have the ability to perform repetitive tasks, memorize numerous instruments, and manage inventory effectively.
• The role requires tolerance for exposure to blood and body tissue.
• Proper training in cleaning procedures and safety protocols will be provided.