Associate Sterile Processing Technician

Responsibilities Perform duties in Central Sterile Processing Department in Decontamination, Instrument Preparation and Assembly, and Sterilization/Disinfection relating to cleaning and sterilizing instruments and equipment to be used in patient care. Disassemble complex instruments, supplies and equipment; sort and inspect for damage and report needed repairs. Select the mode of decontamination best suited for items on hand. Assemble, prepare and package instrument trays, surgical instruments, equipment, and specialty items. Determine the appropriate sterilization or disinfection method and follow appropriate steps for reprocessing. Follow strict documentation guidelines for tray management, biological/chemical test results, equipment functionality, and reprocessing steps. Receive, sort, disassemble and process contaminated instruments and equipment using the procedures and guidelines established by Infection Control. Remove soil, blood, tissue fragments and body fluids by wiping, soaking, rinsing, scrubbing and using ultrasonic or other mechanical methods, as applicable. Assemble all instrument sets following prescribed manner and as outlined on the Instrument Count Sheets. Properly document missing items from the set and label sets correctly. Takes action to correct problems with instrument sets and reports any unresolved issues. Sterilize instruments, equipment, linen and supplies using various types of autoclaves and aerators; reprocess equipment via high level disinfection as appropriate. Load and operate machinery in prescribed manner and set controls to correct specifications for the items being sterilized. Properly document all activities related to instrument/equipment decontamination, assembly, disinfection, and sterilization in the Instrument Tracking System (TDOC, SPM, Censitrac) or established manual systems. Observe and interpret biological, mechanical and chemical monitors relevant to processing/sterilizing; record results and maintain required records. Initiate recalls as required. Issue items to customers and departments according to established procedures. Observe and report to supervisor any unfamiliar items with or without appropriate processing literature. Report equipment requiring repair as needed. Act as self‑directed and intervene with corrections to variances in the processing practice. Qualifications & Certification Certification as a Sterile Processing Technician from either CBSPD or IAHCSMM. Applicants without Sterile Processing (CRCST) are required to obtain CRCST certification via IAHCSMM within ONE (1) year of meeting the eligibility requirements to sit for the certification exam. Eligibility is defined by IAHCSMM as "10 weeks (400 hours) experience" in a Sterile Processing hospital setting. HIPAA & Privacy The role may require access to information considered sensitive to Albany Med Health System, its patients, affiliates, and partners, including but not limited to HIPAA Protected Health Information and other information regulated by Federal and New York State statutes. Workforce members are expected to ensure that access to information is based on a “need to know” and is the minimum necessary to properly perform assigned duties. EEO Statement Albany Med Health System is an equal opportunity employer. Benefits Excellent health care coverage with no copay at Albany Medical Center providers. A wide array of services and programs to support emotional, physical, and mental wellbeing. #J-18808-Ljbffr