Sterile Processing Technician

 Sterile Processing Technician

The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for the cleaning, decontamination, preparation, assembly, sterilization, storage, and distribution of surgical instruments, supplies, and equipment. This position helps ensure that instruments and supplies are properly processed and readily available to support safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care. The Sterile Processing Technician works collaboratively with perioperative staff to meet the needs of scheduled surgical and procedural cases.

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Support the mission, vision, and values of the organization.
2. Follow established protocols for cleaning, decontaminating, preparing, packaging, disinfecting, sterilizing, and storing medical and surgical instruments, supplies, and equipment.
3. Inspect, assemble, and prepare surgical instrumentation and instrument sets according to established procedures.
4. Distribute medical and surgical supplies and equipment from sterile processing areas to appropriate areas within the facility.
5. Adhere to standard precautions, including appropriate use of personal protective equipment.
6. Follow safety procedures and manufacturer instructions when handling cleaning solutions, supplies, instruments, and equipment.
7. Safely operate equipment used in sterile processing according to manufacturer instructions for use.
8. Monitor, interpret, and document physical, chemical, and biological indicators for sterilization processes.
9. Prepare and distribute surgical case carts according to physician preference lists and anticipated procedural needs.
10. Inventory, receive, organize, and restock instruments and supplies used for sterile processing and surgical services.
11. Maintain accurate documentation of sterilization processes and outcomes in accordance with organizational and regulatory requirements.
12. Maintain cleanliness, organization, and appropriate workflow within sterile processing areas.
13. Comply with organizational policies, regulatory and accreditation standards, and applicable professional guidelines.
14. Communicate effectively and professionally with members of the perioperative team.
15. Participate in quality improvement initiatives related to sterile processing services.
16. Maintain the privacy and confidentiality of patient and organizational information.

Qualifications Required: 

• High school graduate or equivalent
• Strong knowledge of sterilization methods, equipment, and infection control practices.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Excellent leadership skills.

Preferred: 

• Two years of sterile processing experience
• Certified Surgical Technologist
• Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI)
• Experience in a leadership role in central sterile or equivalent 
• Computer skills (Microsoft® PowerPoint, Word, Excel)

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

• Physically demanding, high-stress environment
• Exposure to blood and body fluids, sharp instruments and other devices, communicable diseases, chemicals, and repetitive motions
• Full range of body motion, including handling and lifting instrument trays
• Manual and finger dexterity
• Hand and eye coordination 
• Sitting, standing, and walking for extensive periods 
• Lifting and carrying items weighing up to 50 pounds
• Corrected vision and hearing to within normal range