Sterile Processing Specialist

The Sterile Processing Specialist is responsible for teaching/precepting the Sterile Processing Technicians and Surgical Technician Students the process of reprocessing surgical instruments through each area of the department. The position ensures the proper operation of all sterilizer units prior to daily us and is responsible for ensuring that the biological and chemical tests at the beginning of the day are correct and documents results in the instrument tracking system. The position is responsible for inspecting all equipment for viable signs of malfunction and reports to the manager and/or Biomed. The Specialist processes or oversees all contaminated instruments and supplies returned to Sterile Processing Department (SPD).  The position performs other related duties as required such as examining sterilization/expiration dates; reporting inoperable equipment; making visual inventory inspections to maintain adequate stock and supply level; performs efficacy testing on all equipment as needed; cleans shelves and work areas; and mops liquid spills from floors as necessary.  The position maintains assigned work areas and equipment in a clean and organized condition to maintain required standards for handling sterilized and clean materials and to maintain a safe work environment; maintains count sheets and item inventory in instrument tracking system; and carries out routine and assigned tasks of inspecting case carts, instruments, and supplies, and storing items in the appropriate place in the SPD. The Sterile Processing Specialist is also responsible for acquiring needed items from the Sterile Processing Department and delivers them to the Operating Room.  

• Trains Sterile Processing Technicians and surgical technician students the process of reprocessing surgical instruments through each area of the department. Retrains Sterile Processing Technicians as needed.

• Performs all responsibilities/duties required by the Sterile Processing Department as defined in the scope of service to ensure that the unique nature of the client is addressed.

• Perform other related duties as required such as: High Level Disinfection, examining sterilization/expiration dates; reporting inoperable equipment; making visual inventory inspections to maintain adequate stock and supply level; test effectiveness of sterilizer function by assembling and placing culture spore tests following procedure; monitor, interpret, and document results of physical, chemical and biological indicators for all types of sterilizers used in the sterile processing areas; follow safety procedures and manufacturer’s instructions when handling cleaning solutions, supplies and equipment; operate equipment used in the sterile processing areas safely and according to the manufacturer’s instructions for use; monitor, interpret, and document results of physical, chemical and biological indicators for all types of sterilizers used in the sterile processing areas; prepare and distribute surgical case carts according to physician’s preference lists and anticipated needs of the perioperative team; store new and reprocessed equipment and supplies; and clean shelves and work areas and mop liquid spills from floors as necessary.

• Maintains current knowledge/certification/licensure. Pursues professional growth and development.

• Directs other licensed and non-licensed personnel in the provision of care to patients as assigned.

• Assist in other duties as assigned to support the operational needs of the department and organization.

• May be required to remain on campus immediately before, during, and after severe weather and/or disasters.

Minimum Education 

• High School Diploma or Equivalent Required

Minimum Work Experience

• 2 years sterile processing experience required

Licenses and Certifications

• BLS for Healthcare Providers (BLS) American Heart Associations upon hire required.

• CRCST or CSPDT Certification HSPA or CBSP upon hire preferred. 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of surgical procedures, instruments, equipment and supply management and decontamination of equipment with demonstrated competency.

• Ability to read and understand the English Language.

• Strong attention to detail, organizational and follow through skills required.