Sterile Processing Technician

South Shore Health•Weymouth, MA

36d•Onsite

About The Position

South Shore Health is seeking a detail-oriented Sterile Processing Technician to support the preparation, sterilization, and distribution of surgical instruments and medical equipment. This role is crucial for ensuring patient safety and surgical excellence within the hospital setting. The technician will be responsible for understanding and executing all sterilization functions and control methods, performing duties in assembly/packing and decontamination areas according to guidelines, accurately testing and documenting sterilizer operations, managing the case cart system, maintaining inventory levels, utilizing technology for work processes, fostering a culture of safety, and demonstrating flexibility to meet customer needs.

Requirements

Prior sterile processing experience in a hospital setting strongly preferred.
Completion of or enrollment in a Sterile Processing Technician certification program.
Knowledge of surgical instrumentation, case cart assembly and aseptic technique preferred.
Basic computer skills required.
Must be able to communicate effectively.
Possess excellent customer service skills.
Must agree to obtain CRCST certification within the first 24 months of hire.

Nice To Haves

Six (6) months to one (1) year Central Services and Supplies, or related experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Demonstrates a clear understanding of all sterilization functions and control methods, including sorting items, choosing appropriate sterilization materials, loading and logging items, checking machine printouts, and completing all documentation.
Performs duties in the assembly/packing area, correctly identifying kits, inspecting instruments for cleanliness and function, noting missing items, using count sheets, wrapping and labeling items, and ensuring the work area is kept neat and clean.
Performs duties in the decontamination area, using proper dress and protective gear, utilizing dirty lifts, processing contents of case carts one at a time, sorting instruments before cleaning, hand washing items, placing items in pass-through windows, soaking and scrubbing soiled items, loading and unloading washer racks and case cart washers, and keeping the work area neat and clean.
Performs and accurately documents testing of all sterilizers, including daily Bowie-Dick testing, Diagnostic tests on Steris System 1, biological testing, and documenting results within the proper time frame. Notifies appropriate personnel of any sterilizer failures or positive biological tests.
Performs all required steps in the operation of a case cart system, accurately generating pick lists, filling case carts accurately and efficiently, utilizing the computer to generate pick lists, recording add-on cases, sending completed case carts to the OR, organizing case carts, and restocking shelves.
Participates in maintaining proper inventory levels of supplies by notifying management of items needing to be ordered, utilizing the first-in-first-out method for stock rotation, demonstrating proper care and handling of supplies, putting sterile items in the proper location, and maintaining adequate supply levels.
Embraces technological solutions to work processes and practices, utilizing Lotus Notes, the time clock and computer for time entry, and computer programs such as OR Manager, TimePC, and Meditech. Effectively utilizes department manuals and databases.
Fosters a "Culture of Safety" through personal ownership and commitment to a safe environment, answering safety questions, understanding roles during hospital codes, operating equipment safely, understanding procedures for equipment malfunction, following CDC guidelines for Universal Precautions, making appropriate use of personal protective equipment, utilizing proper body mechanics, and handling/disposing of biohazard waste.
Demonstrates the ability to be flexible and set priorities to meet the needs of the customer, giving immediate attention to priority items, adjusting work schedules to complete STAT items, providing follow-through on priorities, and organizing team efforts for priority requests.
Participates in continued learning and possesses a willingness and ability to learn and utilize new technology and procedures. Embraces technological advances for effective and efficient communication.