Sterile Processing Technician - Certified - Evening shift

Ochsner Health•Meridian, MS

About The Position

The Sterile Processing Technician assures the availability of cleaned, prepared, and sterilized equipment and supplies for surgical procedures. The role serves as a resource for clinical knowledge and supports direct patient care in clinical and satellite operations, as well as operative suites. Duties include receiving, cleaning, distributing, and storing medical instruments and equipment, and are expected to be performed without supervision. The technician also performs other duties as assigned by the SPD Supervisor or Manager of Sterile Processing. The position requires maintaining clinical knowledge, technical skills, training, and credentials; following manufacturer instructions for use, standard operating procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements; and adapting communication and care to the specific patient population. Work takes place in a healthcare patient-care environment and may involve exposure to blood, body fluids, tissue, communicable diseases, hazardous medications, or hazardous waste.

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 an 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 use.
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 in a self-directed manner.
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 communicate pertinent information to appropriate staff in a timely manner.
Ability to maintain required clinical knowledge, technical skills, training, and credentials.
Ability to exert 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, 10 to 25 pounds frequently, and up to 10 pounds constantly to move objects; mechanical lifting devices or team lifts should be used.
Ability to stoop, bend, reach, grab with arms and hands, and perform tasks requiring manual dexterity.
Ability to stand for prolonged periods and travel throughout and between facilities.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including 24/7 availability, weekends, holidays, and on-call availability.

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

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