Central Sterilizing Tech, Surgical Services, Days, PT

Central Sterilizing Tech, Surgical Services, Days, PT

The Central Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for the decontamination, inspection, assembly, sterilization, storage, and distribution of reusable medical devices and surgical instrumentation in accordance with The Joint Commission (TJC), Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), AAMI standards, CDC guidelines, OSHA regulations, and hospital policies. The technician ensures patient safety by maintaining the integrity of sterile instruments and supporting infection prevention and surgical services operations.

Essential Key Job Responsibilities

• Perform manual, ultrasonic, and mechanical cleaning of surgical instruments and medical devices following AAMI, CDC, and manufacturer’s Instructions for Use (IFUs).
• Adhere strictly to standard precautions, including appropriate use of PPE per OSHA and CDC guidelines.
• Properly segregate clean, contaminated, and sterile items to prevent cross-contamination.
• Identify and report breaches in infection control or sterilization processes immediately.
• Inspect instruments for cleanliness, function, alignment, sharpness, and integrity using magnification and testing tools.
• Assemble instrument trays and sets according to count sheets and IFUs, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Select appropriate packaging materials (wraps, containers, pouches) based on sterilization method and device compatibility.
• Operate and monitor sterilization equipment (e.g., steam, low-temperature hydrogen peroxide, ethylene oxide).
• Load and unload sterilizers correctly, verifying cycle parameters meet IFU and AAMI requirements.
• Review and document sterilization records, biological indicators (BIs), chemical indicators (CIs), and load records.
• Quarantine and report failed loads or discrepancies immediately following departmental policy.
• Store sterile items in compliance with AAMI and TJC standards to maintain sterility.
• Rotate stock using FIFO (first-in, first-out) principles.
• Deliver sterile supplies and instrumentation accurately and timely to surgical services, procedural areas, and patient care units.
• Maintain chain-of-custody and tracking documentation for all instruments.
• Accurately document all processing activities, including sterilization loads, monitoring results, and equipment logs.
• Maintain compliance with CMS Conditions of Participation, TJC accreditation standards, and hospital policies.
• Report equipment malfunctions, safety hazards, or noncompliance concerns.
• Maintain clean, organized work areas consistent with infection control and safety standards.
• Follow hazardous material handling and waste disposal regulations.
• Communicate effectively with surgical services, nursing, infection prevention, and leadership.

Role Minimum Qualifications

Required Education

• High school diploma or equivalent

Required Licensure and Certifications – At Hire

• BLS

Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Previous experience in OR (e.g., Surgical Tech, Surgical Asst)

• Knowledge of sterile processing principles, infection prevention, and medical device reprocessing.

• Familiarity with AAMI standards and manufacturer IFUs.

Preferred Qualifications

• CRCST or CSPDT certification

Company Description

Harrison Memorial Hospital (HMH), located in Cynthiana, Kentucky, is a 61-bed, independent, non-profit healthcare facility dedicated to providing high-quality medical services to our community since 1906. We are accredited by The Joint Commission and certified by Medicare and Medicaid, reflecting our commitment to excellence in patient care.

A Growing Network of Care

HMH is proud to offer comprehensive healthcare services through our diverse facilities and programs, including:

Harrison Memorial Hospital – A leading independent, not-for-profit hospital, providing cutting-edge medical care with a patient-centered approach.

Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) – Bringing quality primary care closer to our community, ensuring access to essential healthcare services in rural areas.

EMS Office – A highly trained Emergency Medical Services team, delivering rapid response and lifesaving care when it matters most.

KidTown Daycare – A trusted childcare facility dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for our employees' families.

Specialty Clinics – Offering advanced specialty care, including cardiology, orthopedics, general surgery, and more, ensuring patients receive expert care close to home.

Clinic Pharmacy – Providing convenient, personalized pharmacy services, ensuring seamless medication management for our patients and community.

At HMH, we are committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment where healthcare professionals can thrive and make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of our community.
Join us at Harrison Memorial Hospital, where you can be part of a dedicated team delivering exceptional healthcare in a community-focused setting.