Sterile Processing Technician

South Shore Health•Weymouth, MA

3d•$21 - $29•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 maintaining patient safety and surgical excellence within the organization. The technician will be responsible for various aspects of sterile processing, including understanding sterilization functions, assembling and packing surgical kits, decontaminating equipment, testing sterilizers, operating a case cart system, and maintaining inventory levels. Embracing technological solutions and fostering a culture of safety are key components of this position. The role also requires flexibility and the ability to prioritize tasks to meet customer needs, including participation in continued learning and adapting to new technologies and procedures.

Requirements

Prior sterile processing experience in a hospital setting required.
Basic computer skills required.
Must be able to communicate effectively.
Possess excellent customer service skills.
Varying shifts at least 4 shifts in a 4 week period.

Nice To Haves

Certification highly preferred.
High School diploma preferred.
Six (6) months to one (1) year Central Services and Supplies, or related experience preferred.
Knowledge of surgical instrumentation, case cart assembly and aseptic technique preferred.

Responsibilities

Demonstrates a clear understanding of all sterilization functions and control methods, including sorting items, choosing appropriate sterilization methods, loading sterilizers, 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, wrapping and labeling instruments, and ensuring work areas are kept neat and clean.
Performs duties in the decontamination area, using proper dress and protective gear, utilizing dirty lifts, processing contents of case carts, sorting instruments, hand washing items, cleaning grossly soiled items, and loading/unloading washer racks and case cart washers.
Performs and accurately documents testing of all sterilizers, including Bowie-Dick testing, Diagnostic tests on Steris System 1, and biological testing, notifying appropriate personnel of any failures or positive results.
Performs all required steps in the operation of a case cart system, accurately generating pick lists, filling case carts, utilizing computer programs, recording add-on cases, sending completed carts to the OR, organizing carts, and restocking shelves.
Participates in maintaining proper inventory levels of supplies by notifying management of items needing to be ordered, rotating stock using the first-in-first-out method, caring for supplies, and stocking shelves and work areas.
Embraces technological solutions to work processes and practices, utilizing Lotus Notes, time clocks, computer programs (OR Manager, TimePC, Meditech), and department manuals and databases.
Fosters a "Culture of Safety" through personal ownership and commitment to a safe environment, answering safety questions, understanding hospital codes, operating equipment safely, following CDC guidelines, using personal protective equipment, handling biohazard waste properly, and knowing where to find MSDS.
Demonstrates the ability to be flexible and set priorities to meet customer needs, giving immediate attention to priority items, adjusting work schedules for STAT items, providing follow-through and communication 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.