Job Abstract

Updated: Apr 4, 2024
Location: Lakewood
Job Type:
Department: Sterile Processing-LAK

I. Job Summary:

Under the supervision of the Operating Room Director /Charge Nurse the OR Instrument Technician cares for the instruments and supplies by cleaning, organizing and wrapping them in an approved manner conducive to sterilization and disinfection techniques.

II. Technical and Job Specific Skill:

1. Telephone Skills - Must demonstrate hospital telephone etiquette by answering the phones promptly, courteously and by identifying department and self.

2. Policy/Procedures - Is aware of and follows all hospital and department policies and procedures.

3. Teamwork - Promotes positive co-worker relationships through teamwork and cooperation. Understands and supports the needs of individuals in other departments and promotes conflict resolution. Shares information, work knowledge and experience with co-workers, physicians, and students in a non-threatening manner. Offers assistance and promptly responds to requests.

4. Productivity - Maintains high productivity and performs efficiently regardless of whether the work volume is high or low. Appropriately prioritizes work activities. Responds to difficult situations with self-control and a positive attitude. Makes decisions independently and knows when to ask for assistance. Exercises good judgment and arrives at sound decision

5. Clinical Responsibilities

a. Performs instrument processing (decontaminate, process, sterilize, and maintain) according to hospital policies and procedures.

b. Exhibits working knowledge of steam and gas autoclaves, sonic cleaner and approved germicidal solutions and utilizes equipment in approved hospital procedures.

c. Maintains PAR levels of certain specified sterile supplies in the OR suite.

d. Replaces sterile instrument trays to designated shelves daily, or as necessary.

e. Follows standard precautions in transport and processing of soiled instruments and equipment.

f. Assembles trays according to protocol.

g. Operates steam and EO sterilizers according to policy using all quality control indicators and logs.

6. Communications

a. Answers department calls promptly.

b. Keeps clinical manager/staff nurse informed of any problems.

c. Documents appropriately.

d. Reports unusual occurrences, i.e., sterilizer or equipment problems.

7. Supplies/equipment

a. Orders supplies and equipment as directed.

b. Safely and correctly uses sterilizers and cleaning equipment.

c. Stocks unit.

8. Information Management

a. Utilizes information systems promptly and efficiently (i.e., timely phone response).

9. Unit Involvement

a. Attends 50% of staff meetings.

b. Has knowledge of unit goals and expectations.

10. Patient Rights

a. Upholds all patient rights.

b. Treats all patients, families and co-workers in a polite and respectful manner.

c. Reports immediately any issues where patient rights might be compromised to supervisor, charge nurse, or team leader.

11. Performs any other duties or responsibilities which might be assigned.