Sterile Core Tech, Sterile Processing

The Sterile Core Technician coordinates the flow of surgical case supplies. Coordination and oversight of daily activities between the Sterile Processing Department (SPD) and the OR to facilitate case flow. Responsible for assisting in projects, process improvement and quality initiatives. Promotes customer service/satisfaction through training, education and resolution of OR frictions for the facility. The Sterile Core Technician requires advanced knowledge of surgical instruments, their uses, location, and appropriate substitutions. Care and/or service provided is not in direct contact to neonates, pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patient populations.

1. Secures necessary supplies, instruments and equipment for individual cases through the utilization of preference cards, reporting and staff/physician requests.
2. Orients new sterile processing technicians, surgical technologists and nursing personnel to SPD case preparation process covering preference cards, pick tickets, supply identification, supply location and substitution of specialty surgical instruments.
3. Inspects sterile instruments and supplies for evidence of contamination. Distinguishes between processed and unprocessed instrument trays and peel packs.
4. Inventories, orders and maintains stockroom supplies and instruments within specific area of responsibility.
5. Updates preference cards based on feedback from SPD leaders, clinical supervisors and surgery systems team.
6. Resolves instrument, equipment and supply conflicts with the OR and the SPD department.
7. Reviews the status of designated service emergency carts, ensures adequate, non-expired supply of sterile instruments and supply stock.
8. Inventories peel packed instruments and maintains supplies within scope of responsibility; reporting needs to immediate surgical supervisor and SPD Coordinator.
9. Monitors surgical schedule throughout the day to identify changes and additional procedures, ensuring cases are pulled and sent to the OR department in a timely manner.
10. Operates and documents sterilization procedures.
11. Assists in the ongoing development and administration of hospital and department Quality Improvement initiatives.
12. Practices proper safety techniques in accordance with hospital and departmental policies and procedures. Immediately reports any mechanical or electrical equipment malfunctions, unsafe conditions, or employee/patient/visitor injury-accident to Manager/Supervisor.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES/LICENSE OR CERTIFICATION REQUIRED

1. High school diploma or equivalent.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES/LICENSE OR CERTIFICATION PREFERRED

1. One (1) year of experience as a Sterile Core Technician.
2. Certified Central Service Technician with (2) years surgical processing experience

or Surgical Technologist with five (5) years of operating room experience.

3. Visual color acuity depending on the role in specific units.