Description

Job Description

Basic Purpose of the role

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 Reem Hospital. 

CSSD technician maintains consistency and continuous workflow between CSSD and OR while practicing quality customer service and provide timely sterile products. Performs duties independently, and work proficiently with or less supervision.
 

Key responsibilities of the role

Follow universal precautions by wearing the appropriate protective attire while working in the Decontamination Area.

Identifies and uses appropriate methods and solutions to sort, disassemble, decontaimate, rinse and disinfect resusable medical devices keeping a continuous flow of moving thru the process.

Utilises appropriate cleaning detergents and agents by reading directions and MSDS sheets 

Other responsibilities

Understands Spaulding Classification and appropriate use of disinfectants

Follows manufacturers instructions when dealing with reusable equipment e.g. power equipment, delicate and complex medical devices.

Appropriately handles biohazard materials and maintain safety standards

Challenges the decontamination process using appropriate validation tests e.g. Ninhydrin test, TOSI tests 

Demonstrate the ability to identify instrumentation requiring quick turnover and able to respond appropriately in an accurate and timely manner.

Ability to identify all instruments and equipment processed

Inspect all instruments for cleanliness, proper function, and breakage by assessing the instruments before assembly inspection

Assembles surgical trays & equipment following established tray listings

According to manufacturer guidelines, selects and prepares packaging materials for the sterilization of reusable instrumentation.

Demonstrate competence in use of rigid containers and wrapping materials. Wraps or pouches items according to size and type of instruments or equipment following established protocols related to CSSD practice.

Understands and demonstrates aseptic technique

Challenges the sterilization process by using internal, external & Biological Indicators monitoring systems appropriately

Selects appropriate sterilization methods. Knowledge and understanding of correct principles of sterilization

Understands the principles of Steam Sterilization, and gas plasma sterilization

Monitors, reads, documents and interprets all parameters for sterilizers to ensure proper function and release of sterile goods

Sterilizes instruments and surgical trays by following prescribed policies and procedures

Process and produce sterile items according to standard

Understands policy on release of sterile load

Actively participate in quality initiatives to improve services

Actively support the goal/objectives of the department and consistently meet customer’s expectation and standard of practice

Quality Assurance Monitoring:  Validates and maintains: event-related protocols; disinfection and/or sterilization load parameters and records; inventory check sheet(s); and equipment monitoring.

Adherence to hand washing requirements, workflow patterns, standard precautions, sterility assurance, biological monitoring, and dress code.

Compliance guidelines

Accurately document and maintain daily records of all Quality Assurance and sterilization functions according to regulatory agency and Infection Control standards.

Able to monitor and enforce controls necessary to prevent cross-infection according to Infection Control policies

Displays commitment through actively supporting all health and safety initiatives

Ensures own and others safety at all times

Complies with policies, procedures and safe systems of work Reports all incidents/accidents, including near misses in a timely fashion

Is involved in health and safety through participation and consultation

Enters data correctly into computer programs for department activities

Maintains interdepartmental communications through use of communication tools (e.g. CSSD Call Center is managed in a most efficient way)

Documentation is accurate pertinent and concise

Performs duties with less supervision and serves as a resource person on instrumentation requirements of Operating Room and other customers

Ability to suggest and substitute for unavailable instruments and equipment required

Understands basic anatomy and physiology. Access Surgeon’s pick list and updates lists when necessary

Understands medical terminology and relates to instrument requirements

Monitor, tracks medical devices required by Operating Room and advise team of any devices requiring FAST TRACKING or prioritization.

Demonstrate ability to identify factors that compromise sterility of sterile goods in relation to event related sterility

Ability to identify storage location using number and colour codes

Maintains proper cleaning of all mechanical equipment

Proper use of supplies and consumables 

Performs other duties and responsibilities

Qualifications, Certifications and Experience

Required – Associate Degree in Healthcare Related Field with emphasis on microbiology
OR- Successful completion of CSSD training program
Good understanding of Medical Terminology
Current National License
Not less than two (2) years experience in Sterile Services (CSSD) field in a healthcare environment
 

Physical requirements

Potential of working irregular hours including on-call hours.
Typical physical demands include: a high degree of manual dexterity to sufficiently perform computer functions on a keyboard, produce materials on a PC and operate basic office equipment, normal or corrected vision and hearing, extensive sitting and walking, mobility sufficient to visit with departments or employees throughout the facility and lift up to 13 kgs.
In addition must be able to assist in evacuation procedures by being able to assist in lifting, pushing and moving patients, medical equipment and supplies if required in emergency situations.