Will “Surgical Sterile Processing Technician (Surgical Sterile Processing Tech)” be Automated?

Core Skills & Abilities

• Clean instruments to prepare them for sterilization.

• Report defective equipment to appropriate supervisors or staff.

• Stock crash carts or other medical supplies.

• Start equipment and observe gauges and equipment operation to detect malfunctions and to ensure equipment is operating to prescribed standards.

• Deliver equipment to specified hospital locations or to patients' residences.

• Operate and maintain steam autoclaves, keeping records of loads completed, items in loads, and maintenance procedures performed.

• Record sterilizer test results.

• Organize and assemble routine or specialty surgical instrument trays or other sterilized supplies, filling special requests as needed.

• Examine equipment to detect leaks, worn or loose parts, or other indications of disrepair.

• Disinfect and sterilize equipment, such as respirators, hospital beds, or oxygen or dialysis equipment, using sterilizers, aerators, or washers.

• Maintain records of inventory or equipment usage and order medical instruments or supplies when inventory is low.

• Check sterile supplies to ensure that they are not outdated.

• Purge wastes from equipment by connecting equipment to water sources and flushing water through systems.

• Attend hospital in-service programs related to areas of work specialization.

• Assist hospital staff with patient care duties, such as providing transportation or setting up traction.