Sterile Processing Tech - Per Diem

Sterile Processing Technician

The Sterile Processing (SPD) Technician is responsible for the decontamination, disinfection and sterilization of surgical instruments and equipment.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Demonstrates knowledge of processes, procedures, quality assurance, chemicals and medical instruments sufficient to be able to decontaminate, assemble, wrap, and sterilize equipment, supplies, and instruments.
• Demonstrates knowledge of equipment function sufficient to be able to determine operational adequacy and to distinguish between operator error and equipment malfunction.
• Demonstrates knowledge of applicable sanitary, infection control and safety standards sufficient to be able to perform all assignments within the safety parameters.
• Independently follows all cleaning checklists thoroughly and appropriately.
• Initiates cleaning and restocking of all work areas and supplies as necessary.
• Floats readily between all areas of decontamination and sterile processing.
• Maintains communication with operating room staff.
• Applies principles of aseptic technique, standard and transmission precautions.
• Assists in the procurement and maintenance of department inventory.
• Maintain a clean and safe environment.
• Maintains knowledge of all applicable regulatory standards, including but not limited to AAMI and ANSI standards.
• Collaborates with other disciplines to maximize patient outcomes and ensure a smooth flow of the surgical experience.
• Accountable for reporting occurrences through the center's established reporting process related to employee, equipment and/or patient/visitor events.
• Fosters the developmental and educational process of self, colleagues, orientees and students (includes functioning as a preceptor).
• Participates in acceptable continuing education and skill development including meeting departmental continuing education requirements.
• Assists in managing controllable costs by the proper, non-wasteful use of resources.
• Any and all other duties as assigned

Education/Experience:

• High School diploma/GED or equivalent
• Sterile Processing Tech certification preferred
• Instrument processing/Sterile processing experience preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Problem solving skills
• Skill in using a computer
• Knowledge of applicable specialties
• Ability to remove oneself personally from given situations, remaining objective
• Ability to exhibit cooperation, flexibility, and provide assistance when interfacing with patients, physician and staff
• Ability to multi-task
• Skill in organizing and reporting information that is accurate and complete
• Understanding of the need for and evidence of consistent respect for confidentiality/HIPAA
• Ability to maintain composure in stressful situations
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with all staff
• Ability to prepare records in accordance with detailed instructions
• Ability to communicate clearly
• Consistency and timeliness in attendance

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

The work environment/physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a teammate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable differently abled persons to perform the essential functions.