Overview
Our team members are the heart of what makes us better. At Hackensack Meridian Health we help our patients live better, healthier lives — and we help one another to succeed. With a culture rooted in connection and collaboration, our employees are team members. Here, competitive benefits are just the beginning. It’s also about how we support one another and how we show up for our community. Together, we keep getting better - advancing our mission to transform healthcare and serve as a leader of positive change.
The Sterile Processing Apprentice is responsible for the cleaning, disinfecting, processing, and sterilization of surgical instrumentation, patient care equipment and reusable medical/surgical items. This position also assembles Case Carts for the Operating Room (OR).
Responsibilities
A day in the life of a Sterile Processing Apprentice at Hackensack Meridian Health includes:
1. Receives, sorts, disinfects, processes, assembles or sterilizes both patient care equipment and surgical instruments according to established departmental policies and guidelines following instructions for use.
2. Understands all detergents and disinfectants used to process items. Implements both Universal Precautions and proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (P.P.E.).
3. Operates and loads sterilizers (Steam and Hydrogen Peroxide) and assures biological tests and Bowie Dick tests are correctly performed, incubated, read and recorded.
4. Ensures sterilization records are completed correctly by recording all items processed, making sure the correct label/load gun is used, reading and interpreting chemical integrator per load, observing and initialing all computerized print outs for accuracy.
5. Adheres to correct use of computerized instrument count sheets, and utilizes tracking system throughout reprocessing.
6. Prepares case carts for delivery to room by using doctor's preference information to assemble required instruments, and special equipment.
7. Communicates with OR team members and provides customer service to all units requiring Sterile Processing services.
8. Lifts a minimum of 30 lbs., pushes and pulls a minimum of 50 lbs. and stands length of shift.
9. Ability to work with bioburden and grossly contaminated items on a regular basis.
10. Other duties and/or projects as assigned.
11. Adheres to HMH Organizational competencies and standards of behavior.
Qualifications
Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
1. High School diploma, general equivalency diploma (GED), and/or GED equivalent programs.
2. Participation in a Sterile Processing Course, or 1 year experience in instrument processing preferred.
3. All applicants will be required to participate in Hackensack Meridian Health's Sterile Processing Technician Apprentice training program.
4. May work weekends.
5. May be required to work three (3) out of six (6) holidays.
6. Work rotating schedule/shifts based on needs, and days off if working a scheduled weekend.
7. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
8. Proficient computer skills that include but are not limited to Microsoft Office and/or Google Suite platforms.
Licenses and Certifications Required:
1. National Certification: Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPDT) to be obtained within 9 months of hire.
Working Conditions:
Lifts a minimum of 30 lbs., pushes and pulls a minimum of 50 lbs. and stands length of shift.
If you feel the above description speaks directly to your strengths and capabilities, then please apply today!
Our Network
Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) is a Mandatory Influenza Vaccination Facility
As a courtesy to assist you in your job search, we would like to send your resume to other areas of our Hackensack Meridian Health network who may have current openings that fit your skills and experience.