Sterile Processing Tech (Cert) -Per Diem

EvergreenHealth Monroe•Monroe, WA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

EvergreenHealth Monroe is hiring a per-diem Sterile Processing Tech for its Decontamination and Sterilization Unit. The role is responsible for cleaning, decontaminating, inspecting, assembling, sterilizing, maintaining, and delivering reusable instruments, sets, linen packs, and other supplies. The technician maintains adequate sterile-supply inventory for the operating room and other hospital units and applies knowledge of sterilization, sterile technique, infection control, and microbiology. This is described as a day-shift position with 8-hour shifts and minimal standby and on-call rotation requirements; details will be clarified during the interview process. The role works with hospital and clinical staff, vendors, patients, and visitors, and reports to the Clinical Nurse Manager of Surgical Services. The posting states that the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between EvergreenHealth Monroe and SEIU Healthcare 1199NW.

Requirements

High school graduate.
At least two years of previous work experience in Sterile Processing and Distribution, or completion of a comparable training program.
Knowledge of medical terminology and ability to communicate in English.
Knowledge of instruments and sets, medical supplies, and equipment.
Ability to use a steam autoclave, washer-sterilizer, and ultrasonic washer.
Ability to stand for long periods, assist in moving patients, and lift instrument trays and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
Visual, tactile, and manual dexterity needed to process instruments.
Ability to use personal protective equipment; required hepatitis B immunization or immunity documentation and bloodborne-pathogen training.

Nice To Haves

Sterile Processing and Distribution (SPD) certification.

Responsibilities

Clean, decontaminate, inspect, assemble, sterilize, and distribute reusable instruments, sets, linen packs, and other supplies.
Maintain adequate inventory of sterile supplies, instruments, and equipment for operating room schedules and other hospital units.
Verify with operating room staff that required instruments, sets, and equipment are available and functioning properly.
Update instrument-set and tray inventory lists, report instruments needing repair or replacement, and organize refurbishment of one instrument tray each month.
Respond immediately to urgent requests for sterile instruments or sets.
Operate steam sterilizers, decontamination washers, washer-sterilizers, ultrasonic washers, and heat-seal equipment.
Monitor and document biological and Bowie-Dick tests and temperature and time cycles; report malfunctions and remove questionable sterile supplies from use.
Manually clean and disinfect flexible scopes before, between, and after endoscopy procedures.
Assist with cleaning, inspecting, and sterilizing reprocessed nursing-unit supply items.
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized sterile-processing area, ready for the next shift or procedure schedule.
Maintain the monthly staff schedule, arrange coverage for sick calls and vacations, and assist with staff orientation and continuing education.
Answer telephone calls promptly and professionally and use the communication book to relay pertinent information.
Participate in hospital Quality Improvement and department Quality Assurance programs, including appropriate documentation and reporting.
Identify service-related problems and suggest improvements to quality and productivity.
Follow hospital policies and procedures, the hospital's philosophy of care, and applicable state and federal regulations for hazardous-material exposure.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment and maintain required hepatitis B immunization or immunity documentation and bloodborne-pathogen training.