What Does a Central Sterile Processing Technician Do?
Sterile processing technicians clean, sterilize, assemble and distribute medical equipment and supplies used in operating rooms and other patient care settings. They also deliver surgical instruments and medical supplies to hospitals, clinics and patients’ homes. These healthcare professionals also monitor and repair equipment and sterile supplies. Our central sterile processing technician program prepares students to serve the health needs of the community in this essential hospital job.
Our new central sterile processing facility in Bethpage offers a spacious work area for sterilization and packing instrument trays. Upon receiving a delivery of surgical instruments from ORs across Northwell, our team works together to package and sterilize all the individual components before they are ready for use in operating rooms.
Each tray is labeled, inspected, counted and packaged for each operation that will use the sterile instrumentation. Then the trays are put into the sterilizers to finish the disinfection process. When the trays are sterilized, our team packs them into carts, which are transported to ORs across the system for distribution.
This is just one of the many important responsibilities a central sterile processing technician performs to ensure that the surgical teams at our facilities have what they need for each procedure. Throughout the day, the technician prioritizes OR requests and provides excellent customer service by responding to callers promptly and accurately.
The technician also monitors and maintains the decontamination room and equipment to support department operations. They inspect, restock and reorder inventory in sterile processing, the OR and equipment storage areas to maintain established departmental standards, goals, objectives, quality improvement and safety. They also verify the functionality of equipment, submit requisitions and collect and return unused instruments, trays and equipment to Sterile Processing, OR or equipment storage areas as needed.
Throughout the course of each shift, the central sterile processing technician supports staff by providing assistance and direction. This includes orienting and training new employees, as well as assisting in the training and development of current staff. They also participate in and promote best demonstrated practices through open communication with co-workers and continuous upgrading of skills.
These healthcare professionals are also responsible for responding to problem calls from the OR and transporting sterilized instruments to ORs during and after regular business hours. They may be asked to cover other departments in the case of a supervisor’s absence.
As a graduate of our Central Sterile Processing diploma program, you will be prepared to meet the demands of this high-demand, rewarding career field. Our program features online instruction and a hands-on externship at an actual central sterile processing department, giving you the practical experience you need to start your career in this vital field. Plus, 80% of our graduates receive some form of financial aid. We are committed to making college affordable for everyone. Apply today to get started!