Sterile Processing Technician I

J  o  b    D  e  s  c  r  i  p  t  i  o  n

          Joy                         Care                      Competence                    Respect

Position Summary

Performs a variety of sterile processing functions. Assures proper decontamination, quality assurance, sterilization of equipment and distribution of sterile surgical instrumentation to areas throughout the affiliate and outside service contracts to ensure quality patient care and safety. Identifies and remedies equipment failures and hazards posing potential risks to patients.

High School Diploma or GED is preferred.

1 year of sterile processing experience is preferred. Knowledge of nursing procedures, aseptic technique, medical terminology, and infection control is preferred.

WI-Certified and Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) is preferred.

IL-Certified and Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) is required within 18 months of employment.

Possesses information, skill, and understanding of the work to be performed.

Demonstrates strong verbal communication and listening skills.

Demonstrates strong critical thinking, diplomacy, problem solving and multitasking skills.

Demonstrates competence in processes and applications required for the role.

Demonstrates a high commitment to quality for optimal patient care and customer service.

Sorts, disassembles, inspects, and decontaminates instruments and equipment to reduce the risk of cross contamination and to prepare for sterilization. Loads, counts, and records packages to be sterilized on carts to assure that items are correctly identified for steam or gas sterilizers and performs proper sterilization and correct documentation on each load.

Monitors and maintains proper solution levels on all processing equipment and adheres to safety guidelines for dispensing and usage of chemicals and/or products. Disinfects carts, medical devices, and traction equipment as necessary.

Identifies and correctly counts instruments to assure compliance with established count sheet.

Uses an organized approach when assembling instrument sets to maintain acceptable productivity.

Inspects instruments and equipment for proper operation, wear, and cleanliness after decontamination. Inspects condition and cleaning of all processing equipment daily prior to use, document and report results.

Picks up and returns empty carts and trays/instruments that need to be turned around quickly and works with department to facilitate procedures. Communicates, delivers and picks up instruments and supplies from various ancillary areas to facilitate workflow, minimize turn-around time and assure accurate distribution.

Ensures proper biological/chemical monitoring, sterilizer testing, packaging and assembly, and accurate documentation to maximize consistency and patient safety.

Monitors integrity of packaging materials and devices and inserts proper chemical and count sheets with each package. Affixes correct processing label on each package to be processed using correct terminology and only approved abbreviations.

Sorts sterilized packages, complete appropriate forms, and cover carts and/or items in preparation for delivery or pick up to the appropriate area.

Possess the information, skill, and understanding of the work to be performed.  Actively participates in continuing education opportunities and maintains certifications, licensure as appropriate.

Reduces the risk of healthcare acquired infections through compliance with current CDC hand hygiene guidelines and facility policies including the wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), if applicable.  Utilizes standard precautions during patient contact and when handling contaminated materials.  Demonstrates compliance with National Patient Safety Goals.

Complies with all standards, policies and procedures including dress code, attendance and punctuality.  Attends required in-services and meetings and completes all mandatory competencies by deadline.  Commits to keeping all patient, student or colleague information confidential and maintains excellent interpersonal communication with the health care team colleagues.

Emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care-attending to body, mind, and spirit while upholding ethical principles with patient care and all other aspects of work.  Actively involves the patient and family in decisions about care.  Promotes quality care by participating in organizational councils/committees and/or support of related process.  Documents services provided to patients in the electronic medical record in accordance with policy and requirements. 

The purpose of this job description is to provide a summary of the major responsibilities performed by colleagues in this position. Colleagues may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this job description.  Variances in job duties performed may exist between facilities, and colleagues may perform other related duties as assigned to meet the needs of the organization.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical, Mental and Environmental Requirements Category:

Support Services

Standing

X

Walking

X

Sitting

X

Lifting

X

50 lbs.

Carrying

X

50 lbs.

Pushing

X

50 lbs.

Pulling

X

50 lbs.

Climbing

X

Balancing

X

Stooping

X

Kneeling

X

Crouching

X

Crawling

X

Reaching

X

Use of Hands/Dexterity

X

Talking

X

Hearing

X

Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination

X

Extreme Cold

X

Positions in this category may experience any of

these conditions in his/her work environment.

Extreme Heat

X

Positions in this category may experience any of

these conditions in his/her work environment.

Humid

X

Positions in this category may experience any of

these conditions in his/her work environment.

Wet

X

Positions in this category may experience any of

these conditions in his/her work environment.

Noise

X

Positions in this category may experience any of

these conditions in his/her work environment.

Hazards

X

Positions in this category may experience any of

these conditions in his/her work environment.

Temperature Change

X

Positions in this category may experience any of

these conditions in his/her work environment.

Atmospheric Conditions

X

Positions in this category may experience any of

these conditions in his/her work environment.

Vibration

X

Positions in this category may experience any of

these conditions in his/her work environment.

Other

Positions in this category may experience any of

these conditions in his/her work environment.