Instrument Reprocessing Technician

This position works in the dispensary to sterilize and disinfect clinical instruments and equipment required to ensure the smooth functioning of all of the clinical programs

Organizational Status

This position would report to a Dental Assistant IV, who reports to the Clinic Director, who reports to the Dean.

Work Performed

1) HANDPIECE PROCESSING - Duties include all steps of handpiece processing. Wipe down each of the components of the used hand piece cassettes, then place each piece onto its corresponding lubricating & cleaning machine. Remove the components and put back into cassette, then place onto the steam trolley for sterilization. Load steam oven, start steam sterilization cycle, unload when done and place onto appropriate shelf.

2) BUR PROCESSING - Duties include all steps of bur processing. Place used bur blocks in metal washer baskets, place into the small instrument washer. Remove bur baskets and place on bur station table. Check to ensure bur blocks are complete. Remove burs with debris on them and replace any missing ones. Bag for sterilization and place onto steam trolley for sterilization.

Start sterilizer and unload when done.

3) COLD DISINFECTION - Duties include all steps of the disinfection process. Load items into the cold disinfection bath, unload and rinse when done setting the timers on the different baths. Put all items into appropriate bins to dry off. Dry off any disinfected items on counter as required.

4) INSTRUMENT STERILIZATION PROCESSING - Duties include all steps of the sterilization process including testing autoclaves to ensure vacuum is functioning properly. Perform biological indicator testing. Perform chemical indicator testing. Move instruments and cassettes in and out of the washers, and steam sterilizers. This involves the use of trolleys and physical labour; including lifting, bending, standing, scrubbing, rinsing. Setting of timers on different sterilizers required.

5) May maintain clinic, X-ray rooms and laboratory areas and performs other related duties.

Consequence of Error/Judgement

If an error occurred, possible damage to hand-pieces, instruments and equipment. If incorrect decisions were made it would impact on the clinic functioning properly the next day. Proper sterilization and disinfection is vital to patient care and student curriculum requirements.

Supervision Received

Works under minimal supervision from a Dental Assistant III or IV.

Supervision Given

None

Minimum Qualifications

High school graduation, some additional training in a related field and a minimum two years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own

- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion