sterile processing tech

This job ensures availability of cleaned, prepared, sterilized equipment and supplies for surgical procedures; functions as a resource for clinical knowledge; and performs other duties as assigned by the sterile processing leadership. Receives, cleans, distributes, and stores medical instruments and equipment. Supports direct patient care in clinical and satellite operations as well as operative suites.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

This job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Education

Required - High school diploma or equivalent.

Work Experience

Preferred - 2 years of sterile processing experience or graduation from accepted course in sterile processing or surgical technology.

Certifications

Preferred - Certification through one of the following:

• Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST)International Association Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).

• Certified Sterile Processing Department Technican (CSPDT), Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution(CBSPD).

• Certified Flexible Endoscope Reprocessor (CFER), CBSPD.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Clinical knowledge.

• Proficiency in using computers, software, and web-based applications.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills and ability to communicate pertinent information to patients or appropriate staff in a timely manner.

• Good organizational and time management skills.

• Conflict resolution skills and ability to demonstrate good judgement in performing duties.

• Ability to adapt to change in a positive, constructive manner.

• Ability to work a flexible work schedule (e.g. 24/7, weekend, holiday, on call availability) and travel throughout and between facilities.

Job Duties

• Performs general and specialized instrument care duties.

• Provides supplies as needed for surgical procedures.

• Disassembles and cleans critical reusable medical equipment in accordance with Manufacturer’s Instructions For Use (MIFU).

• Inspects, packages, and reassembles surgical instruments and trays according to established priority.

• Practices High Level Disinfection, Pre-Vaccuum Sterilization, Gravity Displacement Sterilization, and Hydrogen Peroxide Plasma Sterilization techniques in accordance with MIFUs.

• Practices record keeping and document control as defined in Standard Operating Procedures, policies, and recommendations from regulatory bodies.

• Adapts behavior to the specific patient population, including but not limited to respect for privacy, method of introduction to the patient, adapting explanation of services or procedures to be performed, requesting permissions and communication style.

• Performs other related duties as required.

Other related duties as required. The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time.

Remains knowledgeable on current federal, state and local laws, accreditation standards or regulatory agency requirements that apply to the assigned area of responsibility and ensures compliance with all such laws, regulations and standards.

This employer maintains and complies with its Compliance & Privacy Program and Standards of Conduct, including the immediate reporting of any known or suspected unethical or questionable behaviors or conduct; patient/employee safety, patient privacy, and/or other compliance-related concerns.
The employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Physical and Environmental Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. (Constantly: activity or condition exists 2/3 or more of the time) to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Sedentary Work. Even though the weight lifted may be only a negligible amount, a job should be rated Light Work: (1) when it requires walking or standing to a significant degree; or (2) when it requires sitting most of the time but entails pushing and/or pulling of arm or leg controls; and/or (3) when the job requires working at a production rate pace entailing the constant pushing and/or pulling of materials even though the weight of those materials is negligible. NOTE: The constant stress and strain of maintaining a production rate pace, especially in an industrial setting, can be and is physically demanding of a worker even though the amount of force exerted is negligible.

Duties performed routinely require exposure to blood, body fluid and tissue.
The incumbent works in a patient care area; works in an area where patients enter; works directly with patients; and/or works with specimens that could contain diseases. There may be an occupational risk for exposure to all communicable diseases.

Because the incumbent works within a healthcare setting, there may be occupational risk for exposure to hazardous medications or hazardous waste within the environment through receipt, transport, storage, preparation, dispensing, administration, cleaning and/or disposal of contaminated waste. The risk level of exposure may increase depending on the essential job duties of the role.