Sterile Processing Technician (SPT)
Pheonix, AZ
Full Time
Mid Level
Key Responsibilities:
- Decontamination:
- Collect, sort, and transport used surgical instruments, trays, and equipment to the decontamination area.
- Disassemble and clean instruments, trays, and equipment using approved methods, including manual cleaning, ultrasonic cleaning, and automated washers.
- Inspect instruments for damage or wear, reporting any issues to the supervisor for repair or replacement.
- Sterilization:
- Assemble surgical instrument trays and sets according to established guidelines, ensuring that all items are complete and functional.
- Package and wrap instruments, trays, and equipment appropriately for sterilization.
- Operate and monitor sterilization equipment, including autoclaves, ensuring that all cycles meet established parameters for time, temperature, and pressure.
- Perform biological and chemical monitoring tests to ensure the effectiveness of the sterilization process.
- Inventory Management:
- Maintain accurate records of sterilized items, including tracking the sterilization date, expiration date, and batch number.
- Monitor and manage inventory levels of sterile supplies, ensuring that sufficient quantities are available to meet the needs of the healthcare team.
- Restock sterile storage areas and ensure that items are organized and accessible.
- Distribution:
- Distribute sterile instruments, trays, and equipment to various clinical departments and surgical suites as requested.
- Ensure that all sterile items are delivered in a timely manner to support patient care and surgical schedules.
- Retrieve used instruments and equipment from clinical areas for reprocessing.
- Quality Control:
- Conduct routine quality control checks on sterilization equipment and processes, ensuring compliance with VA standards and regulatory requirements.
- Participate in audits and inspections to ensure that sterile processing activities meet established guidelines.
- Identify opportunities for process improvement and contribute to the development of best practices in sterile processing.
- Safety and Compliance:
- Adhere to all safety protocols, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), to minimize the risk of exposure to infectious materials.
- Follow infection control procedures to prevent cross-contamination and maintain a sterile environment.
- Ensure compliance with VA policies, procedures, and regulatory standards, including those set by the Joint Commission, OSHA, and other governing bodies.
- Documentation and Record Keeping:
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all sterilization activities, including load contents, cycle parameters, and test results.
- Document any issues or incidents related to the sterile processing workflow and report them to the appropriate supervisor.
- Ensure that all documentation is completed in accordance with VA policies and regulatory requirements.
- Team Collaboration:
- Work closely with surgical teams, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that sterile processing services meet the needs of the facility.
- Participate in team meetings and contribute to discussions on process improvements and patient safety initiatives.
- Assist in training and mentoring new sterile processing staff as needed.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Completion of a sterile processing or central service technician training program is preferred.
- Certification: Certification as a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) is preferred or required depending on VA facility standards.
- Experience: Previous experience in sterile processing, surgical services, or a related field is highly desirable.
- Skills:
- Strong knowledge of sterilization techniques, infection control practices, and decontamination procedures.
- Attention to detail and the ability to perform tasks with a high degree of accuracy.
- Proficiency in using sterilization equipment, such as autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, and automated washers.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to follow detailed instructions and protocols.
- Basic computer skills for documentation and record-keeping.
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