The Surgical Sterile Processing Specialist 1 is responsible for ensuring the highest standards in the decontamination, assembly, inspection, wrapping, and sterilization of surgical instruments and medical equipment for Surgical Services and Ancillary Departments. This role involves collaborating closely with clinical teams to provide timely, sterile products, trays, and case carts as needed. The Specialist 1 plays a critical role in maintaining efficient and consistent product flow between the Operating Room and Sterile Processing while delivering exceptional customer service. This position upholds Tampa General Hospital’s mission, vision, and values in all job functions.

Essential Functions:

·         Perform thorough decontamination, inspection, assembly, and sterilization of surgical instruments, trays, and medical equipment following established protocols to ensure a sterile supply for all surgical procedures.

·         Maintain accurate records of sterilization processes and conduct quality control checks to identify damaged or defective instruments, ensuring all items meet safety and performance standards before distribution.

·         Work closely with Operating Room and Ancillary Department staff to ensure timely delivery of sterile instruments, case carts, and supplies, prioritizing items based on surgical schedules and urgent trauma cases.

·         Operate and maintain sterilization equipment, while performing routine maintenance and reporting malfunctions to ensure consistent sterilization efficacy.

·         Follow all infection control, safety, and regulatory protocols (e.g., AAMI, OSHA) to ensure compliance and uphold patient safety standards, regularly participating in ongoing training and safety drills.

Education:

High School Diploma or GED

Certification:

• Certified Surgical Technologist
• Approved certifications are through Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) or the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CSBPD).

Work Experience:

 1-2 years' experience in Sterile Processing

Technical Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

·         Comprehensive understanding of sterile processing techniques, decontamination, assembly, inspection, wrapping, and sterilization procedures for surgical instruments and medical equipment.

·         Knowledge of infection prevention and control protocols, particularly in a Level 1 trauma setting, where rapid response and sterile processing are critical to patient safety.

·         Proficiency in using sterile processing management software for tracking, documentation, and inventory management.

·         High attention to detail to inspect instruments thoroughly and ensure adherence to sterilization

·         Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with OR staff, nursing, and ancillary department, ensuring smooth coordination and high levels of service.

·         Willingness and ability to keep up with industry best practices to enhance performance and ensure patient safety.