Job Summary : The Sterile Processing Tech I is responsible for the building and coordination of instruments and case carts between the Operating Room, Ancillary departments and Sterile Processing. Coordinates case carts, add-ons and will serve as a contact person in Sterile Processing for each service in the Operating Room. Will have direct contact with physicians, nurses, and scrub techs. Will clean, decontaminate, prepare, assemble, and sterilize surgical instrumentation and related equipment used by surgical services and other clinical departments. Sterile Processing Technician Certification Preferred Essential Key Job Responsibilities COMMUNICATION/INFORMATION MANAGEMENT Demonstrates and facilitates effective departmental and inter-departmental communications. Consistently responds to departmental and inter-departmental needs in a prompt, accurate, clear, and precise manner. Consistently informs appropriate individuals about problems involving equipment, supplies, instruments, implants, etc. Consistently maintains continuity of communications COMPETENCY TO CLEAN AND DECONTAMINATE INSTRUMENTS, SUPPLIES, EQUIPMENT, AND CASE CARTS Uses care in handling instruments, identifies heat sensitive items, and separates delicate items to prevent damage. Consistently keeps washers loaded and operating. Knowledgeable of the basic use of surgical instruments. Keeps accurate records of all instruments received and cleaned. Follows cleaning, decontamination, and sterilization procedures per manufacturer’s instructions. COMPETENCY TO PROCESS IMPLANTS Consistently inspects the integrity of implant packaging to ensure sterility. Assembles implant sets, emergency carts, and trays with minimal assistance Consistently processes, checks, and labels implants in a timely, accurate, and legible manner with minimal assistance. Replaces all items needed to complete implant sets and specialty carts with minimal assistance. Records requests for implants on the record form. Consistently maintains a clean and orderly work area. COMPETENCY TO PROCESS INSTRUMENTS, SUPPLIES, EQUIPMENT, SETS, TRAY, AND CASE CARTS Consistently inspects instruments for sharpness, deterioration, alignment, and cleanliness. Inspects all serration and cannulations according to policy. Uses care in handling instruments, identifies heat sensitive items, and separates delicate items to prevent damage. Checks the condition of instrument containers prior to use. Ensures that appropriate sterilization indicators and filters are placed in the instrument pan(s) prior to sterilization. Consistently follows specified checklist when assembling instrument sets/trays. Consistently labels/initials instrument sets and equipment accurately, legibly and in a timely manner. Consistently ensures that instrument sets are complete prior to sterilization; records all missing tag items that are not replaced in instrument sets. Consistently keeps conveyor unloaded and cleared of trays. Knowledgeable of the basic use of surgical instruments. Correctly processes workload (case cart, power equipment, decontaminating equipment, scopes, etc.) and determines processing/cleaning priorities. Follows cleaning procedure per manufacturer’s instructions. Displays knowledge in identifying surgical instrumentation. COMPETENCY TO MAINTAIN AN ENVIRONMENT THAT SUPPORTS ASEPSIS AND SAFETY Understands and practices basis aseptic principles. Understands the importance of precisely following guidelines for decontamination and loading washers as outlined by policy and procedure. Demonstrates understanding of basic principles of all types of sterilization methods used at SVIMC and operates/maintains sterilizers according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Is prompt and loads sterilizers in the correct manner. Checks printouts at the beginning of the sterilization cycle, and at frequent intervals during the cycle and at the end of the cycle to ensure proper function. Performs daily appropriate testing for sterilizers according to manufacturer’s instructions (Bowie-Dick, biological 3M Attest). Keeps accurate and legible ledger on all sterilization test results. Prepares cleaning solution accurately and maintains adequate level of cleaner in the washer. Understands and complies with infection control policies and procedures such as hand washing, containment of infections agents/materials. Attends in-service programs and complies with general safety guidelines, fire safety rules, hazard communications, emergency codes and procedures. Uses care in operating all equipment and carts; sinks are cleaned. Sterilizer drains are free of debris and cleaned daily. The job summary and responsibilities listed above are designed to indicate the general nature of the work performed within this job. They are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all job responsibilities required of employees assigned to this job. Employees may be required to perform other duties as assigned.
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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.