Sterile Processing Technician

About the position

The position involves performing all aspects of sterile processing, including basic decontamination of medical equipment, surgical instruments, and miscellaneous supplies, as well as preparing items for processing and sterilization. The role is crucial for assisting with the timely completion of the surgery schedule by ensuring the proper supply of instrumentation and equipment for each surgical procedure. Additionally, the position is responsible for maintaining quality assurance logs and documentation for all sterilization equipment and processes. Competence in all areas of the department is required, with proficiency in at least two areas such as decontamination, prep and pack, sterilization, and sterile holding.

Responsibilities

• Ensures sterilization parameters are met by selecting appropriate sterilization methods and following correct principles of sterilization.
• Properly reviews and documents sterilization load and biological test results to confirm required parameters for sterilization have been achieved.
• Creates a safe work environment by selecting appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and monitoring proper environmental controls.
• Cleans and validates proper functionality of all general and specialty instruments by conducting thorough inspections.
• Uses an electronic instrument management system to correctly assemble, protect, wrap, containerize, peel pack, and label instruments and instrument sets.
• Demonstrates proper use, maintenance, and operation of sterilization equipment.
• Distinguishes between operator errors versus equipment malfunction and performs basic troubleshooting.
• Reports equipment failures or errors immediately to supervisor or manager.
• Maintains sterile integrity and assures timely delivery of supplies and instrumentation to surgery.
• Communicates appropriately with Central Sterile Processing (CSP) and Operating Room (OR) staff to define and resolve problems.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST), preferred.
• Minimum 6 months of related experience, preferred.
• Effective written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Basic working knowledge of a computer.
• Ability to utilize critical thinking skills and comprehend verbal and written instructions.
• Strong attention to detail.