Sterile Processing Tech

Children's National Hospital

3d • $23 - $46 • Onsite

About The Position

The Sterile Processing Tech supports Operating Room clinical operations by inspecting, preparing, receiving, and issuing sterile processing equipment and supplies to the Operating Room and inpatient units. The work includes processing instruments and supplies to support safe, high-quality surgical care.

The role prepares instruments and equipment for sterilization, builds instrument sets according to count sheets, operates processing equipment, and monitors sterilization records and indicators. It also involves coordinating with Operating Room staff about supplies, case carts, instruments, linens, and waste; anticipating surgical team needs; and helping maintain a safe, efficient, and supportive environment for patients, families, and staff.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Six months to one year of related experience.
• Experience in a health care-related field.
• Certification as a Registered Central Services Technician (CRCST).
• Moderate computer ability.
• Communication skills, including written and verbal skills.
• Knowledge of aseptic technique.
• Ability to perform basic calculations, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Human relations and interpersonal skills.
• Good telephone etiquette.
• Ability to maintain a friendly and polite attitude toward families and staff.

Nice To Haves

• Sterile processing experience.

Responsibilities

• Support patients, families, and staff; report concerns about preoperative care to appropriate personnel and direct case-preparation questions to the Clinical Manager of SPD.
• Help provide a safe, efficient, and supportive environment for surgical patients through the quality of processed equipment and supplies.
• Assemble paperwork needed for the patient.
• Receive, wash, inspect, prepare, and issue instruments, trays, and other equipment according to policies and procedures.
• Inspect and prepare surgical items for sterilization.
• Stamp, date, store, and rotate items; issue sterile and nonsterile items; and inspect for outdated items.
• Maintain daily productivity levels.
• Communicate with Operating Room staff about the needs and activities of the inner and outer core, supplies, case carts, instruments, linens, and waste.
• Apply principles of sterile technique and demonstrate a surgical conscience.
• Select and prepare supplies and instruments for sterilization, use the appropriate sterilizer, and apply correct disinfection techniques in accordance with manufacturer protocols.
• Load and operate washers, dryers, ultrasonic cleaners, sterilizers, and cart wash machines.
• Build instrument sets according to count sheets and established policies and procedures.
• Use required instrumentation and supplies with knowledge and dexterity.
• Anticipate emergency or unusual equipment and supply needs, as well as the needs of the surgical team.
• Organize preparation for surgical cases.
• Monitor sterilization, maintain daily records and indicators, follow recall procedures, and implement procedures that ensure sterilization requirements are met.
• Speak up about unsafe behavior or performance, verify information used for decisions and documentation, and pause to resolve uncertainty.
• Communicate accurately, clearly, and promptly in writing and verbally; promote safety for patients, families, visitors, and coworkers.
• Attend to details and self-check behavior and performance using Stop, Think, Act, and Review.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health coverage, including medical, prescription, infertility, and transgender health services.
• Paid time off, including vacation accrual from day one, sick leave, holidays, and a personal day.
• 401(k) plan.
• Healthcare and dependent care spending accounts.
• Employer-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability coverage, with optional supplemental plans.
• Tuition assistance.
• Fitness resources.
• Employee assistance.
• Commuter benefits.

What This Job Offers

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