Position Summary
The Sterile Processing (SPD) Technician is responsible for the decontamination, disinfection and sterilization of surgical instruments and equipment.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The key duties and responsibilities of the Sterile Processing Technician include, but are not limited to:
Demonstrates knowledge of processes, procedures, quality assurance, chemicals and medical instruments sufficient to be able to decontaminate, assemble, wrap, and sterilize equipment, supplies, and instruments.
Demonstrates knowledge of equipment function sufficient to be able to determine operational adequacy and to distinguish between operator error and equipment malfunction.
Demonstrates knowledge of applicable sanitary, infection control and safety standards sufficient to be able to perform all assignments within the safety parameters.
Independently follows all cleaning checklists thoroughly and appropriately.
Initiates cleaning and restocking of all work areas and supplies as necessary.
Floats readily between all areas of decontamination and sterile processing.
Maintains communication with operating room staff.
Applies principles of aseptic technique, standard and transmission precautions.
Assists in the procurement and maintenance of department inventory.
Maintain a clean and safe environment.
Maintains knowledge of all applicable regulatory standards, including but not limited to AAMI and ANSI standards.
Collaborates with other disciplines to maximize patient outcomes and ensure a smooth flow of the surgical experience.
Accountable for reporting occurrences through the center’s established reporting process related to employee, equipment and/or patient/visitor events.
Fosters the developmental and educational process of self, colleagues, orientees and students (includes functioning as a preceptor).
Participates in acceptable continuing education and skill development including meeting departmental continuing education requirements.
Assists in managing controllable costs by the proper, non-wasteful use of resources.
Any and all other duties as assigned
Education/Experience
High School diploma/GED or equivalent
Sterile Processing Tech certification preferred
Instrument processing/Sterile processing experience preferred
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Problem solving skills
Skill in using a computer
Knowledge of applicable specialties
Ability to remove oneself personally from given situations, remaining objective
Ability to exhibit cooperation, flexibility, and provide assistance when interfacing with patients, physician and staff
Ability to multi-task
Skill in organizing and reporting information that is accurate and complete
Understanding of the need for and evidence of consistent respect for confidentiality/HIPAA
Ability to maintain composure in stressful situations
Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with all staff
Ability to prepare records in accordance with detailed instructions
Ability to communicate clearly
Consistency and timeliness in attendance
Work Environment/Physical Demands
The work environment/physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a teammate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable differently abled persons to perform the essential functions.