Sterile Processing Apprentice

Hackensack Meridian Health • Brick Township, NJ

434d

About The Position

The Sterile Processing Apprentice at Hackensack Meridian Health is responsible for the cleaning, disinfecting, processing, and sterilization of surgical instruments and patient care equipment. This role is essential in ensuring that all surgical tools are properly prepared for use in the Operating Room, contributing to the overall mission of providing high-quality healthcare services.

Requirements

• High School diploma, general equivalency diploma (GED), and/or GED equivalent programs.
• Participation in a Sterile Processing Course, or 1 year experience in instrument processing preferred.
• All applicants will be required to participate in Hackensack Meridian Health's Sterile Processing Technician Apprentice training program.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient computer skills that include but are not limited to Microsoft Office and/or Google Suite platforms.

Nice To Haves

• National Certification: Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPDT) to be obtained within 9 months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Receives, sorts, disinfects, processes, assembles or sterilizes both patient care equipment and surgical instruments according to established departmental policies and guidelines.
• Understands all detergents and disinfectants used to process items and implements Universal Precautions and proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (P.P.E.).
• Operates and loads sterilizers (Steam and Hydrogen Peroxide) and assures biological tests and Bowie Dick tests are correctly performed, incubated, read and recorded.
• Ensures sterilization records are completed correctly by recording all items processed and making sure the correct label/load gun is used.
• Reads and interprets chemical integrator per load, observing and initialing all computerized print outs for accuracy.
• Adheres to correct use of computerized instrument count sheets and utilizes tracking system throughout reprocessing.
• Prepares case carts for delivery to room by using doctor's preference information to assemble required instruments and special equipment.
• Communicates with OR team members and provides customer service to all units requiring Sterile Processing services.
• Lifts a minimum of 30 lbs., pushes and pulls a minimum of 50 lbs. and stands length of shift.
• Ability to work with bioburden and grossly contaminated items on a regular basis.
• Other duties and/or projects as assigned.
• Adheres to HMH Organizational competencies and standards of behavior.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package
• Supportive work environment
• Opportunities for professional development

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Hospitals
• Education Level: High school or GED