Position Overview

• Processing of instruments, utensils, and respiratory equipment in preparation for sterilization.
• Maintaining an understanding of the dynamics of sterilization and an ability to operate any sterilization system in use within the department including preparing the device for a particular sterilization technique, operating the sterilizer, and processing monitoring readings, error codes and quality assurance for load releases.
• Maintaining an understanding of and adhering to Quality Policies and Procedures and infection control principles.
• Preparing linen bundles for the Operating Rooms.
• Handling and transporting sterile supplies throughout the Centre. Must apply inventory rotation and sterility maintenance principles.
• Interacting in person and/or on the telephone with hospital personnel to ensure supply issues are met.
• Picking up and transporting soiled instruments and equipment throughout the Centre, ensuring infection control principles are followed.

Experience

• Current Medical Device/Operating Room experience required.

Education (Degree/Diploma/Certificate)

• Complete high school education, Manitoba standards, required.
• Successful completion of a Sterile Processing Technician program required.
• A complete and thorough understanding of aseptic technique, cleaning, preparation, assembling, packaging, sterilizing, storage and delivery of sterilized products; a complete and thorough understanding of the function of sterilizing equipment, washer/decontaminators, pasteurizers, sterile drying cabinets and heat sealers; a thorough understanding of related quality policies and procedures; and an understanding of the care and handling of surgical instruments, equipment and supplies.

Certification/Licensure/Registration

Not Applicable

Qualifications and Skills

• Must understand and apply safety principles to self, staff and patients, and demonstrate good customer service.
• Basic computer skills required.
• Must have a good knowledge of instrumentation and sterilization techniques.
• Must be fluent in written and verbal English, and possess good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Must be versatile and rotate through and assist with all the assignments.
• Must be capable of working under pressure and performing a wide range of duties that may require independent action.
• Must be able to apply knowledge through experience to organize duties systematically.
• Must be cooperative, alert, accept directions, and be able to function as a team member.

Physical Requirements

• Work involves frequent exposure to infectious body and blood borne organisms when working with soiled equipment, and toxic effects when working with ETO sterilizers and WHMIS products.
• Position involves meticulous attention to detail with regards to technical and mechanical ability.
• Must maintain a clean and orderly work environment.
• Pushing and pulling sterilizer carts and supply carts as required.
• Walking is a major portion of activity when sterilizing and transporting.
• Bending and stooping.
• Loading and unloading of carts.
• Lifting and positioning of articles in excess of 14 pounds (i.e. OR instrument pans, etc.).
• Repetitive hand arm and shoulder motions and long periods of standing.
• Potential for burns from working with steam sterilizers and hot carts.