Sterile Processing Tech

Performs decontamination, cleaning, assembling, packaging, sterilization, storage, and distribution of reusable surgical instrumentation and equipment. Cleans the OR suites and terminally cleans suites as assigned as well as other assigned cleaning areas. Practices the SJH Corporate Compliance program and participates in Performance Improvement activities.

Ability to operate technical, constantly changing equipment. Learns and understands medical terminology use. Performs other duties as assigned.

• Decontamination, Sterilization, and Assembly
• Decontaminates and sterilizes instruments.
• Assembles, wraps, and sterilizes trays of instruments.
• Follows proper Standard Precautions while in decontamination and sterilization areas. Utilizes appropriate PPE.
• Loads autoclaves and handles sterilized instruments following principles of sterilization.
• Sorts mismatched sets of instruments, trays, and medical equipment.
• Identifies instruments with their given name, utilizing appropriate resources.
• Follows correct inventory sheet for assembly.
• Makes them available to sterile processing customers in a timely manner.
• Accurately interpret color-dependent strips and equipment. Documentation, Policy, and Procedures
• Monitors biological and chemical indicators to ensure quality and consistency for decontamination of instruments.
• Performs tests for all autoclaves prior use at the beginning of the day.
• Identifies when a cycle is aborted or Sterilizer malfunctions and follows procedures for correction.
• Assists with maintaining established departmental policies and procedures, objectives, quality improvement, safety, and environmental/infection control standards. Inventory Checks and Equipment Safety
• Restocks, labels, and maintains inventory, submits requisitions, collects, and distributes instruments, implants, and trays.
• Performs environmental maintenance duties and assists in maintaining inventory levels in sterile processing, the operation room and in supply storage areas.
• Verifies that instruments/equipment functions properly.
• Places requisitions for maintenance, repair, or replacement.
• Removes defective instruments and equipment from service. Endoscopes
• Processes flexible endoscopes according to manufacturer recommendations: leak test, brushing channels, irrigating with enzymatic detergent, etc.
• Works with Endoscopy Tech to ensures equipment needs are met and facilitates communication of equipment issues or concerns to OR UC/OR Materials Coordinator. Communication
• Good interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Proficient communicative, auditory, and visual skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to write legibly.
• Performs and adapts to frequently changing environment and departmental needs.
• Acts as a runner for Clinicians. Job Requirements M inimum Education Required : Must have completed Central Sterile Supply Processing Technician course content after 1 year of hire: Certificate of Completion preferred. M inimum Work Experience Required: Basic computer skills required. Communicates effectively and professionally. Required Licenses: BLS required within the first 90 days of employment. Functional Demands W orking Conditions Hospital surgery suites. Stressful situations, frequent interruptions, irregular hours, exposure to high temperatures from autoclaves, crowded conditions, exposure to fumes and chemicals. Irregular meals and breaks. Must be reachable by phone during call shifts and have a one hour response time. Must be on-site at the SJH campus or other facilities to fulfill the responsibilities of this role. P hysical Requirements Requires a lot of sitting/standing for prolonged periods of time, frequently walking, and reaching (overhead, extensive, repetitive). Must be able to lift 50 pounds. Ability to move patients as needed. Must be able to pass color-blindness test. Direct Reports: None Reports to: Clinical Manager RN Surgical Services I nternal and External Contacts: Outside vendors, ER, Radiology, and OB staff as well as outside clinics. L eadership Capabilities Attention to Detail
• Completes tasks in a way that ensures there are no errors
• Methodically and patiently reviews work to identify any mistakes or discrepancies
• Creates and stores documentation in a way that is thorough and easy to access Composure
• Avoids becoming defensive or irritated when times are tough
• Maintains balance when the unexpected happens Listening
• Practices attentive and active listening
• Has the patience to hear people out Organizing
• Can coordinate multiple activities and resources at once to accomplish a goal
• Arranges information and files in a useful manner Priority Setting
• Spends his/her time and the time of others on what’s important
• Quickly zeros in on the critical and few and puts the trivial many aside Timely Decision Making
• Makes decisions in a timely manner, sometimes with incomplete information and under tight deadlines and pressure