Sterile Processing Technician - Full Time - St. Mary Campus

Ochsner Clinic Foundation•Houma, LA

About The Position

The Sterile Processing Technician assures the availability of cleaned, prepared, and sterilized equipment and supplies for surgical procedures. The role provides clinical knowledge as a resource and supports direct patient care in clinical and satellite operations as well as operative suites. Responsibilities include receiving, cleaning, distributing, and storing medical instruments and equipment; duties are expected to be performed without supervision. The technician performs general and specialized instrument care, follows manufacturer instructions and established procedures, maintains required records, and adapts interactions to the needs and privacy of the patient population. Other duties may be assigned, and the role must comply with applicable laws, accreditation standards, regulatory requirements, and the employer’s Compliance & Privacy Program.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Certification through one of the following: Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) through IAHCSMM; Certified Sterile Processing Department Technician (CSPDT) through CBSPD; Certified Flexible Endoscope Reprocessor (CFER) through CBSPD; or certification in Surgical Technology with successful completion of the internal sterile processing training course within the first six months of hire.
Computer skills and dexterity for data entry and retrieval of patient information.
Proficiency with Windows-style applications and keyboard.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present information clearly and professionally to individuals at varying levels throughout the patient care process.
Good analytical, organizational, time management, and conflict-resolution skills.
Ability to work independently and be self-directed.
Ability to adapt positively and constructively to change.
Ability to exercise good judgment and initiative and use effective judgment and decision-making when performing duties.
Ability to stoop, bend, reach, and grab with arms and hands, and to demonstrate manual dexterity.
Ability to stand for prolonged periods and travel throughout and between facilities.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including 24/7 coverage, weekends, holidays, and on-call availability.
Ability to meet medium-work physical demands: exerting 20 to 50 pounds occasionally, 10 to 25 pounds frequently, and up to 10 pounds constantly to move objects.

Nice To Haves

Two years of sterile processing experience.
Additional degrees, business training experience, and/or certifications may be combined to meet minimum qualifications.
Additional courses in Sterile Processing or Surgical Technology.

Responsibilities

Receive, clean, distribute, and store medical instruments and equipment.
Perform general and specialized instrument care duties.
Provide supplies as needed for surgical procedures.
Disassemble and clean critical reusable medical equipment in accordance with Manufacturer’s Instructions For Use (MIFU).
Inspect, package, and reassemble surgical instruments and trays according to established priority.
Perform High Level Disinfection, Pre-Vacuum Sterilization, Gravity Displacement Sterilization, and Hydrogen Peroxide Plasma Sterilization in accordance with MIFUs.
Maintain records and document control as defined by Standard Operating Procedures, policies, and recommendations from regulatory bodies.
Adapt behavior to the specific patient population, including respecting privacy, explaining services or procedures, requesting permission, and tailoring communication.
Maintain current clinical knowledge, technical skills, training, and credentials.
Communicate pertinent information to appropriate staff in a timely manner.
Remain knowledgeable about and comply with applicable laws, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements.
Report known or suspected unethical or questionable conduct and patient, employee safety, privacy, or other compliance concerns.
Perform other related duties as required.