Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital

Department: Sterile Processing

Position is located: Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital

Work Type: Full Time

FTE: 40 Hours per Week

Work Schedule: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM

Summary :

Under direction/supervision of Supervisor of Surgical Services or Director of Surgical Services, the Sterile Processing Lead Technician is responsible for performing all duties related to sterile processing. This person will be accountable for assuring that the work is done in a timely, efficient and accurate manner according to all standards and guidelines put forth. This person will function as a leader within the department and will assure that the staff completes all required work for the day is accurate and complete. SPD Lead Technician will act as a liaison to specialty clinics/departments to resolve issues. Act as a resource for SPD staff; precept new staff, provide training and assist with competency assessment/completion as needed. Work closely with staff and department leaders to identify and improve department success. Research manufacture's sterilization and cleaning instructions and ensure current applicable practices are in place. Order/maintain par levels for implants, instruments, stock items and special order items for the department. Cordinate instrument/equipment repair that is needed for the department.

Responsibilities :

• Demonstrates knowledge and competencies which include but are not limited to the following equipment and skills: • Autoclave • Steris Machine • Total Joint Trays • Implants • Washer - Cart and Instrument • Demonstrates a high degree of competency in decontamination, assembly and sterilization of surgical instruments according to manufacturer recommendations and current procedures/ policies. • Demonstrates knowledge in correct surgical instrument identification • Complies with departmental requirements for correct packaging and labeling of all items processed • Completes documentation in a timely manner which includes, but is not limited to: • Provides written documentation of all biological monitoring from the Surgical Services department to the Infection Control nurse quarterly. • Interprets test results from daily autoclave/sterilizer testing. • Maintains recodes of autoclave/sterilizer testing, maintenance, repairs and usage. • Maintains records of all cycles on autoclave card. • Assists with all recall efforts as required by autoclave/sterilizer malfunctions. • Is able to complete functions on assigned unit. • Maintains an adequate number of supplies to assure availability without overstocking. • Prints preference sheets, picks proper supplies and instrumentation for the procedure, making note of what is missing. • Responds quickly and appropriately when additional instrumentation or supplies are needed in the OR. • Anticipates the needs of the OR staff, looking at the schedule for potential instrument demands. • Loads and operates sterilizers and washers in accordance with department policy and usage. • Maintains a clean, uncluttered area. Insures floors are clean and trash is removed. • Cleans autoclaves inside and out monthly. • Bacteria and monitor checks are conducted daily. • Promptly and accurately responds to all requests for patient care items • Demonstrates skills and knowledge with product identification, inventory control, and rotation supplies. • Communicates any departmental concerns or issues clearly and in a timely manner to the Surgical Services Nurse Manger. • Is a role model and mentor by being active in continuing education, which includes but is not limited to: • Precepts new staff as assigned. • Identifies learning needs and seeking appropriate training or education to remain current in knowledge, skills and advancements. • Has an understanding of the unit's quality improvement plan as evidenced by supporting a quality plan, developing a policy or unit competency or by collecting data. • Participates in departmental process improvement activities • Performs assigned weekly/monthly tasks on a regular basis • Demonstrates adaptability to changing trends • Maintains work area in a clean and orderly fashion. • Promotes and maintains confidentiality • Assists in the care and maintenance of department equipment and supplies • Attendance • Adheres to Attendance and Punctuality Policy, which includes but is not limited to: • Reports to work on time and when scheduled. • Takes breaks per policy. • Requests time off with appropriate lead time.

Other Information :

Competencies and Skills

• Behaves with Integrity and Builds Trust: Acts consistently in line with the core values, commitments and rules of conduct. Leads by example and tells the truth. Does what they say they will, when and how they say they will, or communicates an alternate plan.
• Cultivates Respect: Treats others fairly, embraces and values differences, and contributes to a culture of diversity, inclusion, empowerment and cooperation.
• Fosters Accountability: Creates and participates in a work environment where people hold themselves and others accountable for processes, results and behaviors. Takes appropriate ownership not only of successes but also mistakes and works to correct them in a timely manner. Demonstrates understanding that we all work as a team and the quality and timeliness of work impacts everyone involved.
• Practices Compassion: Exhibits genuine care for people and is available and ready to help; displays a deep awareness of and strong willingness to relieve the suffering of others.

Education

• Required High School Diploma/General Educational Development (GED)

Working Conditions

• Work with computers, typing, reading or writing.
• Lifting, moving and loading 20 to 30 pounds.
• Prolonged periods of sitting.
• Prolonged periods of walking.