HCSS Sterile Processing Technician

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Sterile Processing Supervisor, assists in carrying out the responsibilities for the overall work flow
of the assigned shift and coordinates of an assigned medical or surgical specialty and the instrumentation and 
equipment processed for that specialty. 

MAJOR DUTIES / CRITICAL TASKS:   

Instrumentation Decontamination:

• Decontaminates surgical instruments and other medical equipment as needed by keeping a continuous flow of equipment moving through the process.
• Utilizes appropriate cleaning detergents and agents by reading directions and MSDS sheets.
• Requests manufacturer’s guidelines for proper decontamination of loaner instruments.
• Follows industry and hospital standards associated with the transport of contaminated instruments and equipment.
• Follows Universal Precautions by wearing the appropriate protective attire while working in the decontamination area.
• Performs and documents according to departmental policy equipment testing.

Instrumentation Assembly:

• Inspects all instruments for cleanliness, proper function, and breakage by viewing the instruments before assembly.
• Assembles surgical trays and equipment following established tray listings.
• Wraps or pouches items according to size and type of instrument or equipment.
• Interacts with customer to ensure prompt delivery of needed equipment.
• Maintains accurate instrument counts for all surgical sets to be assembled and informs supervisor of any discrepancies.
• Communicates any issues that arise with instrument preparation to the Sterile Processing Supervisor or Manager.

Sterilization:

• Sterilizes instruments and surgical trays by following prescribed policies and procedures.
• Challenges the sterilization process by using internal, external and biological monitoring systems appropriately. Monitors, read, documents, and interprets all parameters for all types of sterilizer to insure proper function and patient safety.
• Picks surgical case carts by following established Surgeon Preference Cards or Procedural Pick list/requisition.

Case Carts & Supplies:

• Assembles and distributes case carts per department policy.
• Picks surgical case carts by following established Surgeon Preference Cards or Procedural Pick list/requisition.
• Prepares surgical emergency case carts for emergent procedures.
• Distributes all sterile and non-sterile supplies upon request for case cart requisition.
• Orders and puts away supplies and linens upon request.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Assumes functional shift supervisory responsibilities when the actual shift supervisor is not present.
• Sanitizes the workstation at the end of each shift.
• Utilizes the Abacus Instrument/Equipment Tracking system per department protocol.
• Effectively communicates, verbally and in writing, with customers, peers, and visitors.
• Troubleshoots and resolves issues associated with instruments or equipment.
• Adheres to internal controls and reporting structure.
• Identifies and resolves issues and keeps the supervisor or department program manager informed.

• Serves as the primary preceptor for all new technicians on the shift.

• Maintains appropriate quality records such as logs, sterilization records and count sheets.

• Coordinates resources for problem identification and resolution ensuring the smooth operation of Sterile Processing.

• Ensures that existing policies and procedures of Sterile Processing are understood and adhered to by the personnel on his/her assigned shift.

• Makes changes in work schedule or duties when necessary for the overall work and prioritization of functions.
• Participates with supervisor and manager in planning for the future needs of the specific shift as a whole including but not limited to personnel needs, program development, intradepartmental relationships and instrument/equipment needs.