Scrub and Sterile Processing Tech

General Summary

The Scrub and Sterile Processing Tech is responsible for delivering care to surgical patients and ensuring the efficient operations of the Surgery Department. This role involves instructing medical students, nurses, and other technicians in the technical aspects of surgery while also maintaining high standards of sterilization and cleanliness for surgical instruments. As the first line of defense against transferable infections, the Sterile Processing Tech plays a crucial role in the surgical environment.

Essential Job Duties

• Surgical Technologist Duties:
  • Select instrument sets and appropriate instrumentation based on the proposed surgery, potential complications, and surgeon preferences.
  • Prepare the operating room with necessary equipment.
  • Scrub, gown, and glove team members for the operative procedure.
  • Drape the patient and assist the surgeon in accordance with approved methods.
  • Handle instruments correctly and monitor their functionality.
  • Ensure proper techniques and practices are upheld in the operating room.
  • Count sponges and sharps with the Circulating Nurse before and after the procedure.
  • Anticipate the surgeon’s needs to avoid delays.
  • Assist with the clean-up of the operating room before and after procedures.
  • Act as the first assistant to the surgeon as needed.
  • Properly identify and preserve specimens received during surgery.
  • Communicate progress and changes in the operating room to the OR Supervisor.
  • Assist in the orientation, training, and education of staff.
  • Restock departmental supplies according to inventory levels.
  • Report equipment servicing and maintenance needs to the department supervisor.
  • Expand knowledge through professional development and attend required meetings.
  • Respect patient privacy and confidentiality.
  • Follow the chain of command when reporting information.
• Sterile Processing Technician Duties:
  • Understand the functions and uses of all surgical equipment.
  • Follow sterilization guidelines for all medical equipment.
  • Check equipment for defects and ensure proper cleaning and sterilization protocols are followed.
  • Organize inventory and maintain necessary supplies in sterile storage areas.
  • Distribute instruments and manage inventory for surgical procedures.
  • Operate and monitor sterilization equipment and tools.
  • Organize surgical instrument trays efficiently.
  • Record sterilizer test results accurately.

Qualification and Education Requirements

• Successful completion of a Surgical Technologist training program or a minimum of one year of experience in OR scrub nursing (may be waived at the discretion of the OR Supervisor).
• Current BLS certification is required.
• Certification as a Central Supply Technician is preferred.

Knowledge and Skills

• Thorough understanding of surgical operations and techniques to anticipate the needs of surgeons.
• Knowledge of proper handling of surgical instruments and supplies.
• Understanding of medical asepsis as it applies to the operating room.
• Ability to handle tissue specimens and cultures correctly.
• Strong organizational skills for managing surgical instrumentation and supplies.
• Ability to tolerate exposure to blood and body tissues.
• Capacity for executing precise tasks while adhering to safety protocols.

Shift Information

Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM, with variable hours based on caseload. Flexibility for additional hours, shifts, and weekend coverage may be required.

Other Requirements

Attendance at departmental staff meetings is mandatory to enhance communication and educate on policies and procedures.