Sterile processing department (SPD) technicians are vital to safe and efficient care delivery in the perioperative environment and are responsible for ensuring each and every surgical instrument is safe for future use. The job requires very specific characteristics in order to perform the duties correctly and ensure the safety of all involved.

1. KEY CHARACTERISTICS OF HIGH-PERFORMING
STERILE PROCESSING TECHNICIANS
Sterile processing department (SPD) technicians are vital to safe and efficient care delivery in
the perioperative environment and are responsible for ensuring each and every surgical
instrument is safe for future use. The job requires very specific characteristics in order to
perform the duties correctly and ensure the safety of all involved.
Techs and their managers must identify and communicate the characteristics necessary to be
successful in the crucial role of SPD tech. The ability to assess key characteristics for
performing the duties of an SPD tech when recruiting, hiring and reviewing performance can
facilitate building a high-performing perioperative team.
Among the most important qualities of a strong SPD tech are the following:
1. Cautious
Sterile processing technicians must be cautious at all times when handling and cleaning surgical
equipment. High performers understand how to balance speed and caution as well as the
implications of their performance. Reinforcing the understanding of cost and patient safety risks
associated with carelessness needs to be part of ongoing training.
2. Patient
The sterile processing technician role requires patience to work through the details and
processes that make this job so impactful in SPD and the OR. High performing techs must be
both expeditious and extremely accurate. Every screw, hinge, tube, and crevice must be
handled to ensure effective sterilization, and required drying time must be adhered to before
proper reassembly for patient safety and surgical effectiveness.
3. Fast Learner
Carefully reading and following instructions is required at all times for sterile processing
technicians, an increasing challenge as new technology, equipment and instrumentation are
regularly added to surgical inventory. Every surgical instrument has specific instructions for how
to clean, sanitize, and reassemble each piece. Disassembly of the equipment must also be
done precisely for proper cleaning and sterilization. The process needs to be accomplished
efficiently and effectively.
4. Analytical

2. SPD techs are responsible for the sterilization, assembly, and disassembly process from start to
finish ensuring equipment is safe and ready to use. Inspection of each instrument to identify and
report defects is essential to both safe patient care and ensuring appropriate availability of
equipment. Techs are well positioned to identify process improvement opportunities – from
inventory levels to reduction of open/unused expense.
5. Detail-Oriented
SPD techs must be focused and attentive to every detail during the sterilization process. In
addition, a detailed review of inventory to ensure each instrument is accounted for, order
supplies, assemble instrument trays, distribute supplies, and diligently check expiration dates to
ensure the sterile supplies are safe to use and costs are well-managed.
6. Collaborative
SPD techs must to be able to work independently, but also need to have strong interpersonal
skills to successfully collaborate and work with a broad range of other team members. Good
communication skills and relationships can prevent mistakes and improve problem-solving.
If you are struggling with hiring and retaining high-
performing SPD techs, we can help!
visit: www.surgical-solutions.com