SPD

SPD TECH

Surgery Department

Position Summary

The SPD Technician performs services requiring technical and manual skills under the direction of a licensed Registered Nurse. Specific areas of responsibility include cleaning of surgical instruments setting up of instrument trays wrapping and sterilizing equipment. This position will transport surgical trays to and from the basement instrument sterilizer to the first floor surgery department. The role reports directly to the Central Service & Sterile Processing Supervisor. This is a NON-EXEMPT positon.

Major Responsibilities

The SPD Technician is responsible for:

Knowing surgical instruments tray set-up and the sterilization process

Washing of surgical instruments

Setting up and wrapping surgical instruments and trays

Coordinating with the charge nurse and team members regarding scheduled surgeries and equipment deliveries

Informing the charge nurse of broken instruments and repair items to be sent out for repair

Assisting with the pick-up of equipment in the operating rooms

Stocking supplies

Collaboration

The SPD Technician must have a common purpose coordination effective communication and blending of unique and complimentary professional skills.

It is the Equipment Technicians responsibility to participate in the collaborative process. The Equipment Technician receives assigned duties from an RN.

The Equipment Technician practice recognizes the unique relationship whereby he/she must work cooperatively and in partnership without having assignment authority.

Communication

The SPD Technicians primary responsibility is to communicate to all health team members through written and/or verbal communication.

Time Management

Time Management for an SPD Technician includes completion of work within the shift hours and the ability to coordinate multiple needs of team members and physicians.

Advocacy

The SPD Technician acts as the patient client advocate by notifying the RN of any concerns or issues regarding equipment. The SPD Technician demonstrates accountability for the patients right to considerate private and respectful healthcare.

Qualifications

Required:

Basic Cardiac Life Support (BLS) obtain within 30 days of hire

Current California Fire Card

Recommended:

CSPDT Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CBSPD)

Entry-level certification for SPD staff requiring either SPD experience (612 months) or completion of a training program.

CRCST Certified Registered Central Service Technician (IAHCSMM/HSPA)

Nationally recognized credential commonly required by California employers.

Optional advanced credentials:

CIS Certified Instrument Specialist (HSPA)

CER Certified Endoscope Reprocessor (HSPA).

Physical Demand Requirements

Lifting & Carrying:

Frequently lift support push pull and move trays of instruments carts and equipment weighing up to 25 pounds.

Posture & Movement:

Must be constantly standing and walking.

Frequently stoop crouch twist; occasionally kneel squat sit.

Manual Dexterity & Fine Motor Skills:

Requires precise hand-eye coordination to sort clean assemble wrap and inspect instruments.

Sensory Requirements:

Use of speech vision hearing smell and touch (e.g. detecting moisture or temperature differences) is critical.

Environmental Hazards & Conditions:

Exposure to high-pressure steam chemicals bio-waste temperature variations noise odors and potential back strain.

Work under time pressure to meet departmental demands.