Supervisor Surgical and Sterile Processing

Job Description

The Supervisor Surgical and Sterile Processing is responsible for overseeing and coordinating the daily operations of the Surgical Technologists in the OR and the Sterile Processing Department. The Supervisor will ensure all surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies are properly sterilized and prepared for surgical procedures; participate in quality improvement programs; provide quality training and orientation for assigned employees; and other work as needed.

Responsibilities

Supervision and Leadership

o Oversee the decontamination, cleaning, sterilization, and storage of surgical instruments and equipment.

o Ensure all instruments are properly inspected for defects or damage before being processed.

o Manage the distribution of surgical instruments and supplies to operating rooms according to scheduled procedures.

o Assign and oversee team member work and work schedules according to departmental policies in the OR and SPD.

• Quality Assurance and Safety (20%)

o Conduct routine audits to ensure compliance with health and safety standards, including OSHA regulations and infection control protocols.

o Resolve issues related to the sterilization process, equipment malfunction, and other discrepancies.

o Ensure all equipment and instruments are stored in a clean, organized, and functional manner.

Collaboration and Communication

o Work closely with surgical teams, including surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, to ensure that sterile instruments and supplies are available.

o Communicate any issues related to surgical equipment, sterilization processes, or inventory shortages to relevant staff or other departments.

o Act as a liaison between the SPD and other hospital departments, ensuring clear communication regarding surgery schedules and sterile supply needs.

Training and Development

o Lead educational sessions for staff on best practices in sterile processing, sterilization technology, and infection control.

o Keep current with new sterilization methods, medical technologies, and regulatory requirements to ensure staff are properly trained.

o Foster a positive learning environment that encourages professional development and continual improvement.

Inventory Management

o Monitor and manage the inventory of surgical instruments, medical supplies, and sterilization materials.

o Ensure timely ordering of supplies to prevent shortages or delays in procedures. Coordinate the maintenance and repair of sterilization equipment and ensure all equipment is calibrated and functional.

Qualifications