Sterile Processing Technician - St. Mary

Ochsner LSU Health System•Shreveport, LA

About The Position

This job ensures the availability of cleaned, prepared, and sterilized equipment and supplies for surgical procedures. The technician receives, cleans, distributes, and stores medical instruments and equipment; supports direct patient care in clinical and satellite operations and operative suites; and serves as a resource for clinical knowledge. The role includes general and specialized instrument care, instrument and tray preparation, sterilization and high-level disinfection, and related documentation. The technician must comply with applicable laws, accreditation standards, regulatory requirements, the employer’s Compliance & Privacy Program, and Standards of Conduct. Duties may change or be supplemented at the employer’s discretion, and reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities. The position routinely involves exposure to blood, body fluids, tissue, potentially infectious specimens, hazardous medications, and hazardous waste in a healthcare environment.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Clinical knowledge.
Proficiency using computers, software, and web-based applications.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate pertinent information to patients or appropriate staff in a timely manner.
Good organizational and time management skills.
Conflict resolution skills and sound judgment in performing duties.
Ability to adapt positively and constructively to change.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including availability for 24/7 coverage, weekends, holidays, and on-call work.
Ability to travel throughout and between facilities.

Nice To Haves

Two years of sterile processing experience or graduation from an accepted course in sterile processing or surgical technology.
Certification through one of the following: Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) from IAHCSMM; Certified Sterile Processing Department Technician (CSPDT) from CBSPD; or Certified Flexible Endoscope Reprocessor (CFER) from CBSPD.

Responsibilities

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 regulatory recommendations.
Adapt behavior and communication to the patient population, including respecting privacy, introducing oneself appropriately, explaining services or procedures, requesting permissions, and adjusting communication style.
Remain knowledgeable about applicable federal, state, and local laws, accreditation standards, and regulatory agency requirements, and ensure compliance.
Immediately report known or suspected unethical or questionable conduct and patient or employee safety, privacy, or other compliance concerns.
Perform other duties as assigned or required.