Sterile Processing Specialist

Baptist Health Care•Pensacola, FL

About The Position

The Sterile Processing Specialist trains and precepts Sterile Processing Technicians and surgical technician students in reprocessing surgical instruments throughout the department. The Specialist ensures sterilizers are operating properly, verifies and documents biological and chemical test results, inspects equipment for signs of malfunction, and reports issues to the manager and/or Biomed. The role processes or oversees contaminated instruments and supplies returned to the Sterile Processing Department (SPD). The Specialist performs high-level disinfection and other related duties, including monitoring sterilizer indicators, testing sterilizer effectiveness, examining sterilization and expiration dates, inspecting inventory levels, storing new and reprocessed equipment and supplies, and preparing and distributing surgical case carts. The role maintains clean, organized work areas and equipment; maintains count sheets and inventory in the instrument tracking system; and acquires and delivers needed items from SPD to the Operating Room. The Specialist maintains current knowledge, certification, and licensure, pursues professional development, and may direct other personnel as assigned. Remaining on campus immediately before, during, and after severe weather or disasters may be required.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 2 years of sterile processing experience.
BLS for Healthcare Providers certification from the American Heart Association upon hire.
Knowledge of surgical procedures, instruments, equipment, supply management, and equipment decontamination, with demonstrated competency.
Ability to read and understand English.
Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and follow-through.

Nice To Haves

CRCST or CSPDT certification from HSPA or CBSP is preferred.

Responsibilities

Train and precept Sterile Processing Technicians and surgical technician students in reprocessing surgical instruments throughout each department area.
Retrain Sterile Processing Technicians as needed.
Ensure sterilizer units operate properly and monitor, interpret, and document physical, chemical, and biological indicator results.
Assemble and place culture spore tests to test sterilizer effectiveness according to procedure.
Inspect equipment for signs of malfunction and report inoperable equipment to the manager and/or Biomed.
Process or oversee contaminated instruments and supplies returned to SPD.
Perform high-level disinfection and other duties required by the Sterile Processing Department’s scope of service.
Examine sterilization and expiration dates and visually inspect inventory to maintain adequate stock and supply levels.
Follow safety procedures and manufacturer instructions when handling cleaning solutions, supplies, and equipment, and operate sterile processing equipment safely according to its instructions for use.
Prepare and distribute surgical case carts according to physicians’ preference lists and the anticipated needs of the perioperative team.
Store new and reprocessed equipment and supplies in appropriate locations.
Maintain count sheets and item inventory in the instrument tracking system.
Maintain assigned work areas and equipment in a clean and organized condition; clean shelves and work areas and mop liquid spills as necessary.
Acquire needed items from SPD and deliver them to the Operating Room.
Maintain current knowledge, certification, and licensure and pursue professional growth and development.
Direct other licensed and non-licensed personnel in providing patient care as assigned.
Assist with other duties as assigned to support department and organizational operations.
Remain on campus immediately before, during, and after severe weather and/or disasters when required.