Sterile Processing Tech-In-Training

About the job

Kootenai Health is hiring a full-time Sterile Processing Tech-In-Training for Perioperative Services - Sterile Processing in Coeur d'Alene. Supervised directly by a Sterile Processing Preceptor or the Sterile Processing Educator, the trainee learns the work of case carts, supply stock, decontamination, scope processing, high-level disinfection and instrument assembly, in a restricted-access area.

Kootenai Health serves patients across northern Idaho and the Inland Northwest.

What you'll do

• Complete the assigned modules and training laid out in a competency-based orientation packet and the new hire training program
• Learn aseptic technique, standard precautions and the use of personal protective equipment
• Learn how infectious diseases are caused and spread as it relates to sterile processing, along with the medical terminology the work uses
• Learn department standards and processes, including the standards and best practices of AAMI/ANSI, AORN and IAHCSMM
• Learn the safe use and handling of caustic agents and chemicals
• Learn to use quality assurance documents and software for instrument tracking, sterilization records and supply distribution or materials management
• Learn to use department testing equipment to diagnose and address equipment failures: replacing parts, demagnetizing, polishing, sending items for repair, or removing them from service and documenting the need for replacement
• Learn to operate sterilizers and high-level disinfectors and to identify which instruments and equipment suit each process
• Learn to run drying cabinets and heat sealers and troubleshoot when they fail
• Learn to assemble instrument sets and case carts from count sheets and preference cards, based on physician preference

What you need

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Meet the job's training requirements within 4 to 6 months of hire
• Able to bend, stoop, reach and lift up to 50 pounds, and to push and pull heavy carts
• Able to be on foot for 7 to 12 hours at minimum, depending on shift length
• Able to reach overhead, at shoulder height and below, and to handle, lift and feel objects with the hands and fingers
• Able to see and correctly identify colors
• Able to read schedules, preference cards, count sheets, pick lists, monitors, equipment gauges and other written materials
• Able to communicate with co-workers, physicians, patients and families in person, by phone or by email
• Able to work with equipment and adjust its settings, and to use a computer, keyboard and phone system
• The work involves exposure to needles, body fluids, contagious diseases, hazardous chemicals and other infected material, so personal protective equipment is required

Schedule

• Full-time, 80 hours per two-week pay period
• Shifts vary

Benefits

• Medical coverage, with options fully paid by Kootenai Health for eligible full-time staff, starting the first of the month after 30 days of employment
• Dental, vision, life and pet insurance, plus telemedicine and wellbeing resources
• Tuition assistance after 90 days
• Pre-tax and Roth retirement plan options with an employer match of 3% to 6%
• Night, weekend and PRN shift differentials
• A wellness program offering coaching and financial wellness resources, plus free or discounted fitness center access and premium wellbeing apps
• Employee discounts and an employee referral bonus program