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Sterile Processing Technician

Per Diem

Variable shifts, possible weekend, call and holiday coverage

Location:

Springfield MA

Main Campus

**Summary** :

The Sterile Processing Technician performs a variety of functions from decontamination of bio-hazardous material, to cleaning, inspection, assembly, and sterilization of various instruments and equipment according to manufacturer's instruction and/or hospital protocol. The decontamination process requires application of knowledge regarding infection control and safety. Decontamination utilizes automated processors and manual methods. The inspection process requires attention to detail in the visual inspection of instruments and equipment after cleaning and before assembly. In the assembly process, the technician is responsible and accountable for correct assembly of instrument kits, therefore knowledge of surgical instrumentation is necessary. The sterilization process includes operation of steam, ethylene oxide, and low temperature gas plasma sterilizers according to policies and/or manufacturer's instructions.

Strict adherence to sterilization parameters and accurate documentation of all the parameters associated with the sterilization process is required. Quality indicators for all aspects of sterile processing are required to provide our customers with sterile, accurately assembled kits and case carts for surgical procedures. These quality checks include biological and chemical monitoring of sterilization processes and review of all processing records for compliance.

The Sterile Processing Technician must have the ability to prioritize work assignments, work in a fast-paced environment and interact with peers, nurses, physicians and other health care professionals. Maintenance of a clean, organized work area is essential for work flow. All Sterile Processing staff are responsible for the inspection of sterile goods for package integrity and expiration date. Various other clerical duties are performed in addition to the previously mentioned documentation.

The sterile processing technician level II meets all requirements of level I job skills and requirements to be advanced to the level II. The level II technician demonstrates proficiency in sterile processing knowledge and is able to reference and apply the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) standards. The level II technician is responsible for mentoring level I technicians and assisting with educational in-servicing. The sterile processing technician II is capable of taking responsibility of charge duties. The level II technician contributes to patient safety by identifying and participating in system quality improvement initiatives.

The level II technician is knowledgeable of hospital policies and protocols and can reference AAMI, Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) and BHS standards as they pertain to the Sterile Processing Department.

Job Responsibilities:

**1)** Demonstrates knowledge of basic concepts of Infection Control and can adapt this knowledge to Sterile Processing procedures. Understands sufficient medical terminology to discuss supplies needed for medical and nursing personnel.

**2)** Understands decontamination processes for reusable instrumentation and can choose the appropriate cleaning method for each item with no supervision

**3)** Operates and maintains all decontamination automated washers, ultrasonics and sterilizers according to manufacturer's recommendations and/or hospital procedures. Identifies machine malfunction and promptly reports to supervisor and/or clinical engineering.

**4)** Performs and monitors daily TOSI testing on automatic washers and daily SonoCheck testing on ultrasonic washers

**5)** Process and maintain surgical instruments, trays, basins, miscellaneous supplies and devices according to manufacturer's directions. Assembles an average of 8 instrument trays per hour with accuracy. Identifies, inspects, tests, assembles, packages, wraps and sterilizes all reusable instruments and miscellaneous devices

**6)** Performs proper loading and unloading of all sterilizers, accountable for release of sterilized items, and for inspecting the sterile integrity of all items. Responsible for scanning all items into the tracking system before storage and distribution

**7)** Prepares surgical carts by picking items from the storage area according to first in first out stock rotation

**8)** Performs biological and chemical monitoring tests on all sterilizers including steam autoclaves, and low temperature gas plasma, as often as required with minimal supervision. Interprets and maintains accurate records of the biological testing results and all parameters associated with sterilization cycles

**9)** Ability to use the tracking system to scans kits, loaners and peel packs to the rightful locations. Checks integrity of packaging of items placed on storage shelves by carefully verifying that it has no damage. Ensures that items stored on the bottom shelf are in containers

**10)** Capable of returning all disposable supplies to original locations after end of procedures.

**11)** Able to use the preference cards to pick surgical cases for the next day and add-ons when needed

**12)** Able to coordinate turnover of instrumentation for add on cases or in case of contamination events during the procedure with minimal supervision

**13)** Precepts and mentors’ level I sterile processing technicians.

**14)** Conducts audits for decontamination, disinfection, sterilization and equipment maintenance to monitor daily compliance with minimal supervision. Proficient in assembly of all ambulatory clinics and internal units’ instrumentation utilizing reference materials without supervision

**15)** Able to coordinate turnover of instrumentation for add on cases or in case of contamination events during the procedure with minimal supervision

**16)** Able to communicate with operating room staff to troubleshoot any immediate needs that might surface by utilizing instrument tracking system technology and medical terminology during surgical procedures

**17)** Able to communicate verbally or in writing with surgical services staff in order to problem solve issues and share recommendations for improvements.

Qualifications:

High School Diploma or GED

Required Work Experience:

1 year experience in the sterile processing department or entry level surgical technician

Skills and Competencies:

**1)** Proficient in computer skills, medical terminology

**2)** Completes appropriate orientation, 8-12 weeks

**3)** Ability to perform essential functions within the following Sterile Processing areas: Decontamination area, prep and packaging, sterilization

**4)** Web based training, and hand hygiene

**5)** Ability to mentor and assist in educational in servicing

**6)** Ability to assume charge role responsibilities

You Belong At Baystate

At Baystate Health we know that treating one another with dignity and equity is what elevates respect for our patients and staff. It makes us not just an organization, but also a community where you belong. It is how we advance the care and enhance the lives of all people.

DIVERSE TEAMS. DIVERSE PATIENTS. DIVERSE LOCATIONS.

Education:

GED or HiSET (Required)

Certifications:

Certified Sterile Processing Technician - OtherOther

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

Baystate 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, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status.