Sterile Processing Tech I - Galveston

University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB)•Galveston, TX

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Sterile Processing Tech I prepares, assembles, maintains, and transports surgical trays, instruments, and equipment according to established tray listings for issue, storage, or further processing. The role supports instrumentation decontamination, assembly, sterilization, case cart preparation and distribution, and supply handling. The technician follows department policies, hospital and industry standards, and safety precautions while using the Abacus Instrument/Equipment Tracking system and communicating with customers, peers, visitors, and supervisors.

Requirements

Six months of related experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Decontaminate surgical instruments and other medical equipment while maintaining continuous flow through the process.
Record biological testing, immediate-use sterilization load results, and other sterilizer data daily.
Use appropriate cleaning detergents and agents according to directions and MSDS sheets; request manufacturers’ guidelines for decontaminating loaner instruments.
Follow standards for transporting contaminated instruments and equipment and wear appropriate protective attire in the decontamination area.
Inspect instruments for cleanliness, function, and breakage before assembly.
Assemble surgical trays and equipment according to established tray listings; wrap or pouch items according to their size and type.
Interact with customers to ensure prompt delivery of needed equipment.
Maintain accurate counts for surgical sets and report discrepancies to the supervisor.
Communicate instrument-preparation issues to the Sterile Processing Supervisor or Manager.
Sterilize instruments and surgical trays according to prescribed policies and procedures.
Use internal, external, and biological monitoring systems to challenge the sterilization process; monitor, read, document, and interpret sterilizer parameters to ensure proper function and patient safety.
Pick surgical case carts according to Surgeon Preference Cards or procedural pick lists/requisitions.
Assemble and distribute case carts according to department policy, including emergency case carts for emergent procedures.
Distribute sterile and non-sterile supplies upon request or case cart requisition; order and put away supplies and linens upon request.
Sanitize the workstation at the end of each shift.
Use the Abacus Instrument/Equipment Tracking system according to department protocol.
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with customers, peers, and visitors.
Troubleshoot and resolve instrument or equipment issues.
Adhere to internal controls and reporting structure.