CSSD Technician - Arabian Select LTAC and Rehabilitation Hospital

CSSD Technician - Arabian Select LTAC and Rehabilitation Hospital

The CSSD Technician is responsible for maintaining high standards for decontamination, assembly, inspection and testing, packaging, and sterilisation of surgical instruments for surgical services and other ancillary departments in compliance with established policies and procedures in a manner that supports and accomplish the goals and objectives of the Hospital.

The CSSD technician maintains consistency and continuous workflow between CSSD and OR while practicing quality customer service and providing timely sterile products. Performs duties independently and works proficiently with minimal supervision.

Key responsibilities of the role:

Technical:

• Follow universal precautions by wearing the appropriate protective attire while working in the Decontamination Area.
• Identify and use appropriate methods and solutions to sort, disassemble, decontaminate, rinse and disinfect reusable medical devices, keeping a continuous flow through the process.
• Utilize appropriate cleaning detergents and agents by reading directions and MSDS sheets.
• Understand Spaulding Classification and appropriate use of disinfectants.
• Follow manufacturers' instructions when dealing with reusable equipment, e.g., power equipment, delicate and complex medical devices.
• Appropriately handle biohazard materials and maintain safety standards.
• Challenge the decontamination process using appropriate validation tests, e.g., Ninhydrin test, TOSI tests.
• Demonstrate the ability to identify instrumentation requiring quick turnover and respond appropriately in an accurate and timely manner.
• Inspect all instruments for cleanliness, proper function, and breakage by assessing the instruments before assembly inspection.
• Assemble surgical trays & equipment following established tray listings.
• Select and prepare packaging materials for the sterilization of reusable instrumentation according to manufacturer guidelines.
• Demonstrate competence in the use of rigid containers and wrapping materials. Wrap or pouch items according to size and type of instruments or equipment following established protocols related to CSSD practice.
• Understand and demonstrate aseptic technique.
• Challenge the sterilization process by using internal, external & Biological Indicators monitoring systems appropriately.
• Select appropriate sterilization methods and understand the correct principles of sterilization.
• Understand the principles of Steam Sterilization and gas plasma sterilization.
• Monitor, read, document, and interpret all parameters for sterilizers to ensure proper function and release of sterile goods.
• Sterilize instruments and surgical trays by following prescribed policies and procedures.
• Process and produce sterile items according to standard.
• Understand policy on release of sterile load.
• Actively participate in quality initiatives to improve services.
• Actively support the goals/objectives of the department and consistently meet customer expectations and standard of practice.
• Quality Assurance Monitoring: Validate and maintain event-related protocols; disinfection and/or sterilization load parameters and records; inventory check sheet(s); and equipment monitoring.
• Adhere to hand washing requirements, workflow patterns, standard precautions, sterility assurance, biological monitoring, and dress code.
• Accurately document and maintain daily records of all Quality Assurance and sterilization functions according to regulatory agency and Infection Control standards.
• Monitor and enforce controls necessary to prevent cross-infection according to Infection Control policies.
• Display commitment through actively supporting all health and safety initiatives.
• Ensure own and others' safety at all times.
• Comply with policies, procedures, and safe systems of work. Report all incidents/accidents, including near misses, in a timely fashion.
• Be involved in health and safety through participation and consultation.
• Enter data correctly into computer programs for department activities.
• Maintain interdepartmental communications through the use of communication tools (e.g., CSSD Call Center is managed in the most efficient way).
• Documentation is accurate, pertinent, and concise.
• Perform duties with minimal supervision and serve as a resource person on instrumentation requirements of the Operating Room and other customers.
• Suggest and substitute for unavailable instruments and equipment required.
• Understand basic anatomy and physiology. Access Surgeon's pick list and update lists when necessary.
• Understand medical terminology and relate to instrument requirements.
• Monitor and track medical devices required by the Operating Room and advise the team of any devices requiring FAST TRACKING or prioritization.
• Demonstrate the ability to identify factors that compromise the sterility of sterile goods in relation to event-related sterility.
• Identify storage locations using number and color codes.
• Maintain proper cleaning of all mechanical equipment.
• Properly use supplies and consumables.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as required.

Qualifications, Certifications, and Experience:

• Degree in Healthcare Related Field with emphasis on microbiology.
• Successful completion of CSSD training program.
• Good understanding of Medical Terminology.
• Current National License.
• 2 years experience in Sterile Services (CSSD) field in a healthcare environment.