Central Sterile Technician

The Central Sterile Technician is responsible for the centralized cleaning, decontamination, storage, processing, assembling, issuance and preparation of medical/surgical supplies and equipment. The technician must perform tasks quickly and efficiently, paying close attention to detail and understanding the principles involved in each task performed. The Technician also performs a variety of duties to maintain infection control standards for the health and safety of hospital patients, medical staff and personnel.RESPONSIBILITIES: Decontamination Practices Cleans all reusable patient care items returned from nursing and special care units according to Central Service procedure manual.Inspects all reusable items for damage and/or missing parts.Successfully operates and understands the mechanical functioning of ultrasonic washer/dryer, cart washer and washer/decontaminator.Preparation and Sterilizations PracticesFollows prescribed procedures in preparation and assembly of reusable sets of instruments and equipment used in patient care units, surgical services, radiology room, emergency room, etc.Exercises particular attention to detail in organizing tray material and setup and consistently exercises care in protecting all equipment. Identifies correctly the unassembled surgical components of each instrument tray, inspecting each instrument for possible defects and to ensure cleanliness. Pays particular attention to reassembly of non-standard trays and is extremely proficient in this area. Assembles accurately each surgical instrument tray to correspond correctly with prescribed listing on each individual tray by using instrument tracking system. Maintains accurate records of all instruments and equipment processed through the sterilizers.Loads steam/gas sterilizer carriage according to AAMI standards.Conducts safety checks on high and low temperature sterilization.Cleans all sterilizers, carts and carriages following prescribed procedures.Distribution and StorageMaintains Central Service inventory of sterile items on shelves. Checks outdates weekly.Demonstrates both speed and accuracy in filling surgical case cart requisitions for each surgical procedure performed in the Operating Room and transports the filled carts to the OR.Assists in the ordering and inventory control of supplies using the Parex system. Uncases and puts away supplies.Quality Insurance/Quality Indicators and Testing PracticesAssists in data collection in cooperating with quality insurance.Knows parameters of high and low temperature sterilization, aeration, chemical indicators, expiration dating, Bowie Dick Tests, cultures and decontamination equipment testing (Tosi, sono check and cart wash check) and ATP testing on instruments. Performs chemical and biological testing following quality assurance guidelines.Reports problems to appropriate supervisor.Performs other related duties as assigned.EXPERIENCECentral Service or Operating Room experience preferred.EDUCATIONHigh school graduate or equivalent. LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONSCertified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) required OTHERIf applicable, the individual performing this job may reasonably anticipate coming into contact with human blood and other potentially infectious materials. Individuals in this position are required to exercise universal precautions, use personal protective equipment and devices, and learn the policies concerning infection control.Knowledge and understanding of basic principles of asepsis, simple chemistry, simple biology desirable. Good communication and organizational skills.