Sterile Processing Technician - Pediatric

The Sterile Processing Technician I is an entry level professional who works under supervision to clean, decontaminate, assemble, package, and sterilize surgical instrumentation and reusable supply items.

Essential Responsibilities:

Responsibilities listed in this section are core to the position. Inability to perform these responsibilities with or without an accommodation may result in disqualification from the position.

• Assembles and wraps instrument sets.

• Ensures proper use of sterilized sonic cleaners and other related equipment.

• Delivers surgical instruments on a timely basis.

• Thoroughly inspects instruments to ensure all instruments are clean and in good repair/working order prior to sterilization process.

• Decontaminates instruments using proper chemical mixtures and procedures.

• Tests, operates, and loads autoclaves.

• Participates in the routine cleaning and decontamination of all department work surfaces.

• Completes sterilization log sheets.

• Periodically checks sterile inventory in order to remove those items in which sterilization has expired or packaging has been compromised.

• Re-sterilizes compromised instrument sets.

• Identifies and notifies appropriate personnel of inventory or supply shortages.

• Follows Universal Precautions by wearing the appropriate protective attire while working in the Decontamination area.

• Decontaminates surgical instruments and other medical equipment as needed by keeping a continuous flow of instrumentation moving through the process.

• Utilizes appropriate cleaning detergents and agents by reading directions and MSDS sheets.

General Responsibilities:

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: High School Diploma or GED required.

Experience: No experience required. Previous hospital experience preferred.

Licensure/Certifications/Registrations Required:

• Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) issued by the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) issued by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) required within 12 months of hire.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of maintenance and sterilization of medical supplies and equipment.

• Knowledge of applicable sanitation and hygiene standards.

• Knowledge of proper safety practices of steam and gas plasma sterilization.

• Knowledge of record keeping principles and practices.

• Skill in understanding and following verbal and written instructions.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

• Effective customer service skills.

• Proficient in basic computer functions and programs.

• Ability to work effectively under pressure and as part of a team.

• Understanding of patient safety associated with proper decontamination instruments and equipment.