The primary purpose of the sterile processing Instrument Specialist (IS) is to collect, decontaminate, inspect, process, assemble, and sterilize reusable medical instruments and equipment, in compliance with The Joint Commission (TJC), Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) and the products Instructions for use (IFU). The IS has a strong understanding of medical terminology, infection control standards, and following policies/procedures according to American National Standard.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSAdheres to the principles of caring and expected behaviors outlined in MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center's Model of Caring and Trinity Health's Code of Conduct, fostering a climate where all customers are treated in a manner consistent with MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center's Mission and Values. Maintains a working knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations, Trinity Health’s Organizational Integrity Program, Standards of Conduct, as well as other policies and procedures in order to ensure adherence in a manner that reflects honest, ethical and professional behavior. Maintains a working knowledge of TJC and AAMI standards. Knowledge and competency in various enzymatic cleaning detergents, soak times and specificities. Knowledge and competency in the operation of ultrasonic cleaning, automated washers, steam sterilizers, and hydrogen peroxide sterilizers. Competency of reprocessing of advanced robotic instruments and equipment for spine, ortho, and general robotic procedures. Competency in high level disinfection of endoscopes and automated endoscope preprocessors. Competency in complex instrumentation for heart, total joint, laparoscopic and a variety of other procedures. Safe handling and transport of high dollar specialized instrumentation/equipment in accordance with vendor IFUs and TJC regulations. Proficient in understanding and operating our electronic instrument tracking software system. Knowledgeable in Steam and Hydrogen Peroxide sterilization methods. Ability to execute and be a resource for immediate use sterilization and/or quick turnaround methods. Ability to make critical thinking decisions including prioritizing turnaround and case needs. Ability to collaborate with different vendors about request for upcoming cases. Active listening and responsiveness to both internal and external customers. Execute quality assurance process with loaner instrumentation coming into the organization per department policy, including but not limited to logging into software system, taking photos, thoroughly inspecting, looking up the IFU, etc. Ability to navigate, understand, and apply the IFU software system for cleaning new instruments and equipment. Ability to operate and understand the functionality of the inspector scope and the quality inspection process on cannulated surgical instrumentation. Cleans and decontaminates patient use items by taking apart instruments, rinsing, and soaking instruments and using washing/sterilizing equipment per IFU. Assembles, packages, and/or terminally sterilizes patient use items per IFU. Completes and documents required quality testing/inspection records per department policy/equipment IFU. Performs required environmental and/or equipment maintenance procedures. Performs other duties as assigned. Takes an active role in improving quality of service provided by department.
MISSION STATEMENT AND CORE VALUES
Mission Statement: We, MercyOne Trinity Health, serve together in the spirit of the Gospel as a compassionate and transforming healing presence within our communities.
Core Values:
Reverence: We honor the sacredness and dignity of every person.Commitment to Those who are Poor: We stand with and serve those who are poor, especially those most vulnerable.Safety: We embrace a culture that prevents harm and nurtures a healing, safe environment for all.Justice: We foster right relationships to promote the common good, including sustainability of Earth.Stewardship: We honor our heritage and hold ourselves accountable for the human, financial and natural resources entrusted to our care.Integrity: We are faithful to those we say we are.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSHigh school education required. Certified Registered Central Service Technician preferred.
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONSThe working conditions can be loud and vary in temperature. Job requires walking, standing, sitting, bending, stooping, reaching, pushing, and pulling and lifting. (30%-50% of work time). In a normal working day, an employee will be standing up to 8 hours. Job requires employee to lift/carry 25 pounds. (20%-30% of work time) Job requires the use of hands for fine manipulation. Job requires working around biohazardous material/bodily fluids. Must be able to see at a near visual acuity level. Must be able to speak and hear speech.
Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Trinity Health is one of the largest not-for-profit, Catholic healthcare systems in the nation. Built on the foundation of our Mission and Core Values, we integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do. Our colleagues have different lived experiences, customs, abilities, and talents. Together, we become our best selves. A diverse and inclusive workforce provides the most accessible and equitable care for those we serve. Trinity Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.