American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI), Autoclave, Biological Processes, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Clinical Support, FIFO, Infection Control, Inventory Levels, Inventory Management, Leadership, Maintenance Services, OSHA, Operational Support, Organizational Skills, Performance Management, Quality Assurance, Regulations, Sterilization, Stock Rotation, Surgical Nursing, Time Management
Central Processing Duties
- Decontaminates, cleans, and disinfects surgical instruments and equipment following established protocols.
- Inspects instruments for cleanliness, function, and defects; removes damaged items from service.
- Assembles instrument trays accurately according to protocol
- Operates sterilization equipment (e.g., steam autoclaves, Sterrad, ultrasonic, washer/disinfector) ensuring all parameters are met and documented
- Maintains preventative maintenance and cleaning schedule of all sterilization equipment
- Monitors and documents sterilization processes, including biological and chemical indicators
- Maintains accurate sterilization logs and records in accordance with regulatory standards
- Ensures proper handling and storage of sterile supplies to maintain sterility
Storeroom/Inventory Management
- Receives, verifies, and stocks incoming supplies and equipment
- Maintains organized and clean storeroom area following safety and infection control standards
- Assists in monitoring inventory levels and restocks clinical areas as needed
- Assists in rotating stock using FIFO (first in, first out) to minimize waste and expiration
- Assists in identifying and communicating low stock, backorders, or supply issues to leadership
- Assists with periodic inventory counts and supply audits
Support of Clinical Operations
- Assists with picking cases for the next day based on daily surgical schedule
- Ensures timely delivery of instruments and supplies to the operating room
- Responds promptly to urgent supply or equipment needs during procedures
- Collaborates with nursing and surgical staff to ensure readiness for cases
Compliance and Safety
- Adheres to infection prevention and control policies and procedures
- Follows OSHA, CDC, AORN, AAMI/ANSI safety guidelines
- Uses personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriately
- Participates in quality assurance and performance improvement activities
- Maintains competency and completes required education and training
Experience and Education:
EDUCATION:
High school diploma required
Central service technician certification preferred
EXPERIENCE:
1 year hospital experience preferred
Central processing experience preferred
LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION:
National certification must be obtained within first year of employment required
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Indiana Regional Medical Center