Central Sterile Processing Aide

Capital Health is the region's leader in providing progressive, quality patient care with significant investments in our exceptional physicians, nurses and staff, as well as advanced technology. Capital Health is a dynamic health care resource accredited by the DNV that includes two hospitals, an outpatient center, satellite ED, and an expansive network of primary and specialty care. Capital Health Medical Group is made up of more than 600 physicians and other providers who offer primary and specialty care, as well as hospital-based services, to patients throughout the region.

Capital Health recognizes that attracting the best talent is key to our strategy and success as an organization. As a result, we aim for flexibility in structuring competitive compensation offers to ensure we can attract the best candidates.

The listed pay range or pay rate reflects compensation for a full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) position. Actual compensation may differ depending on assigned hours and position status (e.g., part-time).

Pay Range:

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

Position Overview

SUMMARY (Basic Purpose of the Job)

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience: Up to three years of Central Sterile or Sterile Processing experience. CRCST or certified through national sterile processing program recognized by New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services.

Other Credentials:

Knowledge and Skills: Mentorship activity that includes assisting in training of less experienced staff. Will be instrumentation expert in specialized surgical areas (i.e. neurosurgery and Da Vinci surgeries). Able to participate in various projects pertaining to the department (i.e. quality improvement initiatives). Attention to details. Ability to deal with multiple tasks in a fast paced, rapidly changing environment. Ability to establish priorities. Excellent communication and customer service skills. Ability to work under stressful conditions. Basic computer skills with knowledge and understanding of instrument tracking system.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Prepare items for decontamination by properly sorting and selecting the correct process either manual and or mechanical to assure integrity and prevent damage to ridged instruments, power instruments and patient care equipment. Prepares instruments for exposure of all surfaces to the decontamination process which includes flushing and opening all lumens, disassembling and opening locks, and proper loading of mechanical washers. Follows manufacturers' recommendation for cleaning patient care equipment.
• Wears the appropriate PPE equipment in the performance of the decontamination process as outlined within the departmental policies and procedures.
• Operates all decontamination washers, washer sterilizers, sonic washers and dryers and all other manual methods for cleaning in a proper and safe manner. Employs appropriate use of all cleaning agents and chemicals.
• Inspects instruments and assures the item is free of bio-burden and in proper working conditions prior to assembly. Initiates repairs and performs required maintenance as needed.
• Assembles sets with the use of count sheets, replaces missing instrumentation and or identifies missing instrumentation when appropriate and notifies supervisor immediately. Wraps, packs and labels all instrument trays and single instrument packs, basins and other items as instructed following current policies and procedures. Includes identifying that the items are prepared for sterilization, and utilizes integrators appropriately.
• Follows manufacturers' instructions in operating all equipment located within the sterile processing area which includes steam sterilizers and plasma sterilizer (Sterrad). Ensures patient care equipment is tested for power, covered and labeled for re-use. Reports malfunction of sterilization equipment to supervisor upon notice.
• Selects proper sterilization mode for all items to be sterilized. Assures presence of all required chemical and biological indicators. Monitors, checks, and signs all sterilizer printouts to make sure that the required parameters are met during the sterilization cycle. Validates by reading, interpreting and documenting all mechanical, chemical and biological indicators in accordance with departmental policies, procedures and manufacturers' guidelines.
• Performs other duties as assigned. Willingness to adapt to and for departmental and health system needs or demands. Follows and abides by the rules and regulations of Capital Health (CH) as stated in the policies and procedures and the current employee handbook.
• Ensures rotation of sterile instruments, trays and supplies are performed with oldest to be used first. Verifies the integrity of packaging of stored items. Monitors expiration dates and removes expired items from use.
• Cleans workstation at the end of shift. Reports malfunction of equipment or equipment repairs to supervisor upon notice.
• Manages inventory of department specific supplies. Notifies supervisor when levels are getting low and replacement is needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Frequent physical demands include: Walking, Talk or Hear
Occasional physical demands include: Sitting, climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders), Carry objects, Push/Pull, Twisting, Bending, reaching forward, reaching overhead, Squat/kneel/crawl, Wrist position deviation, Pinching/fine motor activities, Keyboard use/repetitive motion
Continuous physical demands include: Standing
Lifting Floor to Waist 30 lbs. Lifting Waist Level and Above 30 lbs.
Sensory Requirements include: Accurate Near Vision, Accurate Far Vision, Color Discrimination, Minimal Depth Perception, Minimal Hearing

Anticipated Occupational Exposure Risks Include the following: Bloodborne Pathogens, Chemical, Airborne Communicable Disease, Extreme Temperatures, Uneven Surfaces or Elevations, Extreme Noise Levels, Dust/Particulate Matter

This position is eligible for the following benefits:

• Medical Plan

• Dental Plan

• Prescription Plan

• Vision Plan

• Retirement Savings and Investment Plan

• Pension Plan

• Disability Benefits

• Vacation

• Sick Time

• Holiday

The pay range listed is a good faith determination of potential base compensation that may be offered to a successful applicant for this position at the time of this job advertisement and may be modified in the future. When determining base salary and/or rate, several factors may be considered including, but not limited to location, years of relevant experience, education, credentials, negotiated contracts, budget, market data, and internal equity. Bonus and/or incentive eligibility are determined by role and level. 

The salary applies specifically to the position being advertised and does not include potential bonuses, incentive compensation, differential pay or other forms of compensation, compensation allowance, or benefits health or welfare. Actual total compensation may vary based on factors such as experience, skills, qualifications, and other relevant criteria.