GENERAL SUMMARY

The Sterile Processing Technician is an integral member of the surgical team. This position provides proper cleaning, decontamination, disinfection and/or sterilization of instruments. The technician will collaborate with the clinical staff and management in review and updating of the facility policies and ensure compliance with recommended sterilization practices. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTION/COMPETENCIES 

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Responsible for receiving, sorting, inventorying, decontaminating, cleaning and sterilizing instruments and instrument sets.
• Loading and operation of washer – sterilizers, dryers, and ultrasonic cleaners.
• Performs and documents biological testing on all sterilization equipment.
• Stamps, dates, stores and rotates processed items properly. Inspects packaging of sterile and nonsterile items to ensure integrity. Removes items if integrity is not intact.
• Maintains all sterilization records and logs.
• Participates in the timely delivery of instruments/supplies for in progress cases by being alert to the needs of the Operating Room.
• Maintains a clean environment by daily cleaning of all work surfaces and equipment.
• Reviews and updates policies as needed to comply with AAMI and other regulating agency requirements.
• Maintains a log for any immediate use of steam sterilization items. Reports these to the appropriate committees and recommends the purchase of additional items based on the frequency of this practice.
• Assist as needed with patient positioning and prep assistance under the direction of the Registered Nurse.
• Performs other position related duties as assigned.
• Employees shall adhere to high standards of ethical conduct and will comply with and assist in complying with all applicable laws and regulations. This will include and not be limited to following the Solaris Health Code of Conduct and all Solaris Health and Affiliated Practice policies and procedures; maintaining the confidentiality of patients' protected health information in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); immediately reporting any suspected concerns and/or violations to a supervisor and/or the Compliance Department; and the timely completion the Annual Compliance Training.

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSURES OR REGISTRY REQUIREMENTS

• BLS certification required.
• Certification as CRCST preferred.

KNOWLEDGE | SKILLS | ABILITIES

• Ability to handle emergency or crisis situations and regular interactions with emotional patients and/or family members.
• Demonstrates good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Interacts with patients, patient’s families, fellow employees, physicians and other persons in a manner which encourages quality patient care, harmonious work relationships, and enhances the image and reputation of the surgery center.
• Demonstrates dependability and accountability.
• Displays willingness to speak up about safety issues or changes in practices to enhance safety.
• Ability to establish and maintain professional working relationships with patients, physicians, co-workers, and others.
• Complies with HIPAA regulations for patient confidentiality.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• High School diploma or equivalent required.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• 1 year of relevant experience preferred.

REQUIRED TRAVEL

• N/A

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Carrying Weight Frequency

1-25 lbs. Frequent from 34% to 66%

26-50 lbs. Occasionally from 2% to 33%

Pushing/Pulling Frequency

1-25 lbs. Seldom, up to 2%

100 + lbs. Seldom, up to 2%

Lifting - Height, Weight Frequency

Floor to Chest, 1 -25 lbs. Occasional: from 2% to 33%

Floor to Chest, 26-50 lbs. Seldom: up to 2%

Floor to Waist, 1-25 lbs. Occasional: from 2% to 33%

Floor to Waist, 26-50 lbs. Seldom: up to 2%