Sterile Processing Assistant

• Department Perioperative Services - Sterile Processing
• Schedule/Shift/Hours Full Time - Variable

Position Summary

The Sterile Processing Assistant supports the Sterile Processing team by performing simple, routine tasks in the case cart, decontamination and sterilization areas. Under direct supervision, this role assists with pulling case carts and receiving and distributing instruments. The Sterile Processing Assistant does not perform complex sterilization procedures or instrument assembly but ensures the workflow runs smoothly while maintaining a safe and clean environment.

Responsibilities

• Assembles and prepares case carts based on surgical schedules and surgeon preference cards
• Utilizes First-In-First-Out (FIFO) inventory management concepts when removing and returning supplies from stock shelves
• Utilizes Instrument Tracking system to track case carts and instruments through stages of processing
• Puts away supplies from cancelled case carts
• Removes clean case carts from cart washer
• Transports case carts to and from the Operating Room (OR), Sterile Processing Department (SPD), and other designated areas, adhering to hospital protocols
• Collaborates with OR and Sterile Processing to ensure add on cases are pulled and delivered in a timely manner
• Follows process to track and deliver sterile instruments and scopes to end users
• Follows department and organization policies when working in sterile departments/areas
• Inspects sterile packaging to ensure integrity
• Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the field
• Regular and predictable attendance is an essential job function
• Performs other related duties as assigned
• Competent to meet age‑specific needs of the unit assigned

Requirements and Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required

Working Conditions

• Bending, stooping, reaching and lifting up to 50 pounds
• On feet a minimum of 7 to 12 hours, depending on length of shift
• Reaching with hands and arms above head, shoulder height and below
• Use hand and fingers to handle, lift, and feel
• Can see and identify colors correctly
• Push and pull heavy carts
• Exposure to contagious diseases, body fluids, hazardous chemicals, needles and other infected material requiring personal protective equipment
• Read preference cards, pick lists, count sheets, equipment gauges, monitors, schedules and a variety of other written materials
• Work according to a schedule that allows some freedom to be carried out in a manner that allows work to be completed each day as needed
• Communicate with patients, physicians, families, and co‑workers utilizing appropriate methods such as in person, on telephone, through email, etc
• Work with equipment and manipulate settings, computer, keyboard, phone system, etc

About Kootenai Health:

Kootenai Health is a highly esteemed healthcare organization serving patients throughout northern Idaho and the Inland Northwest. We have been recognized with many accolades and distinctions, including being a Gallup Great Workplace, No. 1 Best Place to Work in Large Healthcare Organizations, and Magnet™ Status for Nursing Excellence. We pride ourselves on our outstanding reputation as an employer and a healthcare provider.

As your next employer, we are excited to offer you:

• Kootenai Health offers comprehensive medical plan options, including options for fully paid employer premiums for our full‑time employees. For part‑time employees, we offer the same plan options with affordable part‑time premiums. In addition to medical insurance, we offer many voluntary benefits ranging from dental and vision to life and pet insurance. Kootenai Health also offers well‑being resources and telemedicine service options to all employees, regardless of benefit eligibility.
  
  Benefits begin on the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment.
• Kootenai Health’s tuition assistance program is available after 90 days. If you want to further your education, we’ll help you pay for it
• Kootenai Health sponsors retirement plans for employees that enable you to save money on a pre‑tax and Roth after tax basis for your retirement. Kootenai Health will match your contributions based on years of service ranging from 3‑6…