Certified Surgical Technician

Job Description

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operate peracetic acid (gas plasma) Sterrad sterilizers, pre-vacuum and gravity steam sterilizers, washer/disinfectors, product washers, and ultrasonic cleaner according to manufacturer’s specifications.
• Maintain accurate records of the sterilization processes and parameters associated with the sterilization cycles.
• Regulate and adjust sterilization parameters as to cycle selection, cycle pressure, cycle time, and temperature.
• Perform biological and chemical monitoring tests on all sterilizers and High Level Disinfectors by policy and AAMI standards; interpret and maintain accurate records of results.
• Inspect sterilized packages and trays for damage or wet packs and take corrective action prior to transporting to the operating room or other areas in accordance with the hospital Event-Related Sterility Policy.
• Assemble and perform quality control checks for all instrument trays used for surgery; trays are assembled using the most current count sheet and appropriate indicator for sterilizer type.
• Reprocess instruments and equipment according to established guidelines.
• Operate washer/sterilizers, autoclaves, and sterile machines.
• Decontaminate instrument trays, clean sterilizers, and maintain sterilization records.
• Follow appropriate techniques for care and handling of special instruments and products.
• Promote a safe environment for self and team members through use of personal protective equipment and adherence to Universal Blood Borne Pathogen Precautions.
• Keep work area clean and orderly, maintaining a quiet and attentive work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Extended coursework in sterilization techniques required.

Licenses & Certifications:

• Certification as a CRCST through IAHCSMM, or as a CSPDT through CBSPD.
• Must Accumula.

Experience:

• Minimum six (6) months experience preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Must display good inter- and intra-departmental communication skills.
• Must be able to make sound decisions based on criteria set forth in the Hospital’s Policy and Procedure Manual.
• Ability to develop an acute attention to detail in all aspects of Sterile Processing.
• Knowledge of surgical instrumentation and medical/surgical supplies.
• Knowledge of decontamination procedures for all types of instrumentation and equipment.
• Knowledge of instrument tray assembly and appropriate packaging materials.
• Knowledge of inventory control and proper use and handling of supplies, equipment, and instrumentation for cost-effective use.
• Knowledgeable of and adheres to AAMI, AORN, O.S.H.A., and JCAHO regulations relating directly to Central Service.
• Ability to fully utilize electronic record systems, equipment, and other healthcare and billing systems relevant to this position.

Physical Requirements:

• Consistent with requirements necessary to work in a variety of patient care and office settings.
• Prolonged periods of standing, reaching, and walking throughout the working day.
• Required to stoop, bend, lift, and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds.