Job Summary: A Sterile Processing Technician plays a critical role in healthcare facilities by ensuring that all surgical instruments and medical equipment are clean, sterile, and ready for use. The technician decontaminates, inspects, assembles, and sterilizes instruments following strict safety protocols, working to prevent infections and ensuring patient safety. This position requires attention to detail, knowledge of sterilization procedures, and effective communication with healthcare professionals. Key Responsibilities:
Decontamination:- Collect, sort, and transport used surgical instruments and medical devices from operating rooms and clinical areas to the decontamination area.
- Clean and decontaminate instruments manually or using automated equipment (e.g., washers, ultrasonic machines) according to established protocols.
- Properly handle biohazardous materials and adhere to infection control guidelines during cleaning and sterilization processes.
Instrument Inspection and Assembly:- Inspect cleaned instruments for defects, damage, or cleanliness, ensuring they meet quality standards before further processing.
- Assemble surgical trays, kits, and instrument sets according to the specific requirements of surgeries and procedures.
- Ensure accurate labeling and proper documentation of all instruments and trays for tracking and inventory management.
Sterilization:- Operate sterilization equipment (e.g., autoclaves, gas plasma sterilizers) to sterilize instruments and devices.
- Follow proper loading, monitoring, and documentation procedures for each sterilization cycle.
- Perform routine testing of sterilization equipment to ensure it meets industry standards for safety and effectiveness.
Inventory Management:- Maintain an organized system for storing sterile supplies and instruments.
- Monitor and manage inventory levels, reporting shortages or damage to the appropriate department.
- Participate in the routine maintenance and repair of sterilization equipment and tools, ensuring all are in working condition.
Quality Assurance and Safety:- Follow infection control standards, safety protocols, and quality assurance measures to ensure compliance with healthcare regulations (e.g., Joint Commission, CDC).
- Maintain accurate records of sterilization processes, including load logs, biological indicators, and chemical indicators.
- Communicate effectively with surgical teams and other healthcare staff to address any issues related to instrument sterilization, availability, or quality.
Qualifications and Skills:
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Certification in Sterile Processing Technology (e.g., CBSPD, IAHCSMM) is preferred or required based on the facility.
- Knowledge of sterilization processes, infection control, and proper instrument handling.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
- Good communication skills and the ability to collaborate with diverse medical teams.
- Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift heavy trays or equipment, and perform repetitive tasks.
Working Conditions: Sterile Processing Technicians typically work in hospital settings, surgery centers, or outpatient clinics. The job requires handling potentially hazardous or contaminated materials and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent infection. Shifts may vary and could include evenings, weekends, or holidays depending on the needs of the healthcare facility.