We are looking for a highly motivated Certified Sterile Processor to join our location near National Harbor to ensure compliance within our ambulatory surgery practices. The ideal candidate will have 2 years of healthcare experience, and possess a positive attitude with the ability to work in a diverse setting to support the surgical team. Certification is Required

The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for processing all surgical instrumentation, maintaining all related documentation required for compliance, and maintaining all related equipment (washers, autoclaves, ultrasounds, etc.).

Reports to the Director of Nursing

Responsibilities : Responsible for maintaining certification in sterile processing and current knowledge of job role parameters.

Practice :

1. Functions as a member of the healthcare team performing clinical duties, which are required for proper surgical instrumentation processing.
2. Cleaning and sterilization processes for all instrumentation and reusables in the Center, including equipment.
3. Receives soiled instruments into decontamination area & promptly processes same.
4. Prepares soiled instrument trays for the sterilization process.
5. Operates washers/disinfectors, sterilizers, scope washers, and other relevant equipment. Maintains manufacturer guidelines on site for equipment and is self-aware of manufacturer recommendations for operations, cleaning, maintenance, etc.
6. Assures sterility maintenance of supplies.
7. Conducts and maintains proper record-keeping for all the Center's sterilization, biological, and decontamination processes.
8. Maintains QAPI monitoring of packages sterilized to ensure proper procedures are utilized.
9. Ensures proper preventative maintenance is performed on all equipment used.
10. Interacts with maintenance personnel when necessary to ensure their service is provided promptly if equipment is taken out of service.
11. Works in both the soiled and clean utility rooms using proper personal protection equipment as directed in the policy and procedure manual.
12. Assists in picking of cases for the day, when needed.
13. Transports instrumentation to and from the Sterile Processing area when needed.
14. Stocks the store rooms with supplies when needed, rotates stock, checks dates, and ensures proper storage of supplies.
15. Washing, rinsing, and sterilizing instruments and properly operating the sterilizers.
16. Ensures that all broken instruments are repaired and all dull instruments are sharpened by the proper vendor in a timely fashion.
17. Accepts linen supply and stocking the linen for use in the Center.
18. Cleans and maintains all instrument cases.
19. Provides inventory sheets on storage supplies when requested.
20. Knowledge of principals of asepsis, infection control and universal/standard precautions. Reduces chances of nosocomial infection by directing attention to infection control and environmental safety practices.

Materials Control / Financial Awareness :

• Demonstrates knowledge of Center budget endeavoring to reduce waste and ensure cost containment.

Computer Systems :

• Demonstrates knowledge and skill understanding and using the Center’s computer system for documentation, charging, lists reports and inventories. Participates in training classes as needed.
• Maintains confidentiality of all information and the medical record and assigned computer codes.

Communication :

• Maintains open, collaborative dialogue with perioperative nursing staff, the OR Nurse Manager, and the Director of Nursing.
• Effectively communicates and interacts with staff physicians, patients, families, and the public.
• Regularly attends staff meetings, orientations, and in-services. Serves on assigned committees.
• Able to assist with instruction regarding sterilization and maintenance of surgical instruments and equipment.
• Reports promptly and accurately all significant events and problems to the Director of Nursing.

Education :

• High School graduate or equivalent preferred
• Certification in sterile supply processing is required

Special Skills / Licensure / Certifications

• Language skills: Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively
• Additional languages are desirable.

Equipment (such as but not limited to): Surgical instrumentation and equipment such as but not limited to endoscopic equipment, cautery, camera, pumps, specialty equipment, implants, drills, and other power equipment. Medical Gases Alarm System / Shutoffs / Gas Cylinder Manifold Setup Alarm Systems for Fire & Safety, Security, Emergency Nurse Call System

Working Conditions :

• Works inside
• Able to work under stress and able to set priorities effectively
• The potential for exposure to blood and body fluids does exist
• May have exposure to patients with communicable diseases
• May have exposure to hazardous equipment and/or agents

Physical Demands: Standing for long periods, walking, lifting, moving heavy equipment and patients, manual dexterity, and other physical activities for patient care.