JOB SUMMARY

Performs and participates in decontamination, cleaning, assembling, packaging, sterilization, scanning, storage, and distribution of reusable instrumentation and equipment. Adheres to organizational policies and procedures; regulatory/ accrediting body requirements; and professional practice standards (i.e.: OSHA, CDC, AAMI, AORW, IAHCSMM and The Joint Commission).     

NOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Demonstration of self-motivation, efficient and effective work habits.
• Knowledge of safety standards and performance requirements on instruments and equipment.
• Successful completion of mandatory requirements including unit proficiencies/ competencies.
• Demonstration of effective problem solving, decision-making, interpersonal, and team work skills.
• Demonstration of effective verbal and written communication.
• Demonstration of positive customer service.
• Must be attentive to details, reliable, and able to effectively prioritize work.

EQUIPMENT/TOOLS/SOFTWARE

• Basic computer literacy (keyboarding; order entry; word processing).
• Knowledge of and skill in identification of all instrumentation/equipment in the Central Sterile Department.
• Capability of operating sterilizers and other equipment used in the reprocessing of surgical instruments and equipment according to manufacturer's recommendations.

PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintains self-control under stressful situations and workload pressures without exhibiting negative behaviors.
• Demonstrates competency to identify all specialty instruments, supplies and equipment unique to surgical services.
• Monitors the usage of all supplies in the Central Sterile area and adjusts par levels as needed.
• Performs decontamination, cleaning, reprocessing and sterilizing duties according to standards and manufacturer's recommendations.
• Maintains a clean work area.
• Identifies, inspects, orders, receives, processes, stores, disassembles, cleans, decontaminates, assembles, sterilizes and distributes sterile instruments.
• Properly loads and unloads sterilized items.
• Maintains accurate sterilization records.
• Reprocesses endoscopes according to manufacturer's recommendations.
• Performs routine biological testing of sterilization equipment.
• Verifies functionality of instruments; requisitions for repairs or replacement with Department Director approval, and removes defective instruments from service.
• Tracks instrumentation out for repair and collaborates with Perioperative Supply and Equipment Specialist to arrange loaner equipment as necessary.
• In-services and acts a resource to staff regarding new instruments. 
• Demonstrates knowledge of disaster/ emergency procedures and responds appropriately.
• Assumes responsibility and accountability for individual knowledge, skills, performance and behavior in accordance with hospital, division, and unit standards of care and policies and procedures.
• Utilizes measures to promote and maintain patient, visitor and personnel safety.
• Maintains patient, employee, physician, and organization confidentiality; respects the rights, privacy, and property of others.
• Demonstrates the appropriate use of infection control principles and personal protection equipment.
• Selects appropriate method of sterilization.
• Supports the mission, values, and vision of the organization.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Takes responsibility and is accountable for own professional work ethic.

Floats to assigned role within the perioperative setting as needed.

Perform tasks which are supportive in nature to the essential functions of the job, but which may be altered or redesigned