The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for the proper handling of medical and surgical supplies, including their inventory, sorting, stocking, packaging, reprocessing, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing them for use in patient care areas. This role plays a crucial part in ensuring that all surgical instruments and supplies are safe, sterile, and ready for use, supporting high-quality patient care.
Key Responsibilities
Sterilization & Instrument Handling:
- Wraps, seals, and labels instruments and supplies for identification, sterilization, and distribution to ensure patient safety.
- Decontaminates and cleans medical equipment according to established guidelines and procedures.
- Inspects instruments for functionality and identifies items requiring repair or replacement.
- Assembles surgical instrument trays and ensures proper listing of all items required for specific procedures.
Sterilization Monitoring & Quality Control:
- Monitors sterilizer performance by checking indicators and reviewing charts to ensure proper sterilization procedures are followed.
- Logs biological and chemical indicators related to sterilization operations as per hospital policies.
Operational Support:
- Assists with soiled utility rounds and responds to urgent situations requiring immediate attention.
- Coordinates with surgical suite personnel to make adjustments to schedules and assist in maintaining workflow efficiency.
Workplace Organization & Compliance:
- Ensures the work environment remains clean, organized, and compliant with OSHA standards and safety guidelines.
- Maintains a safe, efficient, and hygienic workspace by adhering to hospital procedures and best practices.
Customer Service & Team Collaboration:
- Performs duties with a focus on customer service excellence, teamwork, and innovation.
- Contributes to delivering high-quality care and service to patients, families, and healthcare teams.
Qualifications
Required:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Basic knowledge of sterilization techniques and infection control procedures.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to handle instruments and equipment safely.
- Ability to collaborate with team members and communicate effectively with staff.
Preferred:
- Previous experience in a sterile processing or medical equipment handling role.
- Certification in Sterile Processing (e.g., CRCST or similar) is highly desired.
- Familiarity with surgical instruments and tray assembly.
Why Lurie Children’s?
Lurie Children’s Hospital offers a supportive work environment where employees can thrive, develop new skills, and contribute to the well-being of patients. This position plays a key role in the hospital’s operations, ensuring that every patient receives the highest level of care through meticulous attention to sterilization and equipment handling. The hospital values innovation, teamwork, and service excellence, creating an opportunity for personal and professional growth within a reputable healthcare institution.