Sterile Processing Technician

Position Summary

The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for preparation of instrumentation for surgical procedures. The position entails cleaning/decontamination, assembly of sets, and sterilization. The Sterile Processing Tech is also responsible for ensuring that the required testing of processing equipment is completed and the required documentation and logs are maintained utilizing standards and guidelines from the NYSDOH, AORN, AAAHC, OSHA, CDC, AAMI and instrument manufacture in the cleaning and processing of instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Opens the processing department according to policy and procedure;
• Performs start up procedures and testing of instrument washers and autoclaves. Documents outcomes;
• Receives dirty instruments/sets in decontamination area, disassembles sets and prepares for processing in instrument washer;
• Assures that instruments that cannot be cleaned via automated process and are appropriately cleaned and decontaminated;
• Assembles instrument sets according to inventory sheet; prepares for autoclaving; loads and initiates appropriate cycle;
• Performs biological testing on all loads that contain implants, logs, and documents appropriately;
• Operates all required equipment and machinery accurately and safely;
• Notifies the Charge Nurse and Clinical Nurse Manager of processing equipment malfunctions or issues;
• Reviews and Documents the results of biological testing. Notifies the Charge Nurse and Clinical Nurse Manager of positive biological results;
• Maintains appropriate records, and monitors quality control and infection control standards;
• Collaborates with the OR Charge Nurse to assure that the necessary instrumentation is available throughout the day and for the following day;
• Other responsibilities as needed/assigned.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required;
• Current CRCST certification from IAHCSMM or CBSPD required;
• 1-3 years prior sterile processing experience preferred;
• Ability to lift and move trays of instruments and patient care equipment, i.e., IV pumps, monitors, up to 25 pounds;
• Ability to perform bending, lifting, and washing using decontamination processes, which will include instrument pans, bins, trays, and carts of various sizes.