Instrument Technician Surgical Services

40 Hours. Dayshift. Monday-Friday 11am-7pm.

About the Position

Under the supervision and guidance of the Central Sterile Processing Department Supervisor and the Sterile Processing Department Manager, the Instrument Technician works closely with the surgical and Sterile Processing teams to ensure instruments are available and ready for procedures. This includes inspecting instruments and confirming they are ready for use. All instruments must be cleaned and processed according to their manufacturers’ instructions for use (IFUs) and the requirements of the procedure. Instruments that must be sterile are prepared, packaged or containerized, and sterilized using the appropriate method, such as steam or chemical sterilization. Instruments may be processed to a different required level only when their IFUs and the procedure allow it. After use, instruments must be cleaned, decontaminated, and sterilized or disinfected as required. The Instrument Technician must demonstrate the knowledge and skills needed to provide care appropriate to the area and maintain integrity in aseptic practice.

Essential Responsibilities

• Promotes the organization’s Mission Statement and C.A.R.E. principles.
• Demonstrates knowledge of surgical instruments and procedures.
• Uses effective prioritization, organizational, and communication skills.
• Maintains current knowledge of infection prevention practices, OSHA requirements, and DNV NIAHO Standards by attending required educational sessions and training, both on-site and off-site.
• Successfully completes on-the-job training with Surgical Services and Reid Health.
• Demonstrates knowledge of aseptic technique.
• Demonstrates knowledge of medical supplies, equipment, and medications.
• Is self-motivated and able to work under minimal supervision.
• Must be able to lift assorted items.
• Must be able to assist with lifting, turning, and positioning patients.
• Must be able to stand, bend, push, pull, and walk to move assorted heavy equipment.
• Must be flexible and adaptable to function in a technologically complex environment.
• Must be able to plan work activities, think ahead, and work quickly and efficiently under pressure and stress.
• Receives and assists in transportation of instruments, scopes, and other equipment and verifies their condition, completeness, processing status, and readiness in accordance with applicable policies and procedures.
• Assists in ensuring the efficient and productive utilization of the operating rooms.
• Processes and sterilizes instruments and devices in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions for use and established policies, using the appropriate validated method, such as steam or chemical sterilization. Items may be processed to a different required level only when their instructions for use and intended use allow it.
• Facilitates on-time starts, case turnovers, and accurate case preparation.
• Cleans and monitors the operation of sterilization equipment. Communicates any problems to the Sterile Processing Manager and Clinical Coordinator.
• Coordinates activities related to the maintenance of surgical instruments and equipment. Assists in maintaining equipment repair logs and developing an equipment database.
• Follows up on routine surgical supply orders and back orders. Works closely with the Perioperative Materials Manager to coordinate special-order items and equipment.
• Performs required checks on sterilization equipment and maintains logs in accordance with established procedures.
• Reports malfunctioning, broken, or missing instruments and equipment to appropriate team members and communicates follow-up expectations to the appropriate personnel.
• Attends all required safety and training programs and can describe responsibilities related to general safety, department/service safety, and specific job-related hazards.
• Follows the Department and Reid Health exposure control plans for bloodborne and airborne pathogens.
• Performs duties according to established departmental and hospital policies and procedures, following established infection prevention practices and using aseptic technique where applicable.
• Demonstrates respect and regard for the dignity of all patients, families, visitors, and fellow employees to ensure a professional, responsible, and courteous environment.
• Promotes effective working relationships and works effectively as part of a department or unit team, both interdepartmentally and interdepartmentally, to help the department or unit meet its goals and objectives.
• Can immediately locate the crash cart, defibrillator, and malignant hyperthermia cart or kit.
• Can demonstrate their role in the Hazardous Materials and Waste Program, including procedures to follow in the event of a spill.
• Completes assigned Workday requirements.

Education Required: High School diploma or GED

Experience Required: Preferred at least 1 year of experience/knowledge inside of surgical and/or sterilization environment

Certifications: Preferred Certified Registered Central Service Technician through HSPA or Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician through CBSPD