Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing)
Summary Medical Supply Technicians in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) receive contaminated critical and semi-critical reusable medical devices (RMD) in the decontamination area, and may also receive noncritical equipment.
The reprocessing is in support of all clinical services provided within the two division, both in the surgical suites and outpatient areas.
Responsibilities This occupation is currently approved for a Veterans Health Administration enterprise-wide Critical Skills Incentive through 9/21/2024.
Candidates may be eligible for a lump sum CSI for a pro-rated amount if onboard prior to the CSI expiration date.
Eligible candidates will be required to sign a service agreement agreeing to an obligated service period and failure to complete the obligated service period may result in a debt for the unearned portion of the CSI.
Major duties include, but are not limited to, the following:
Understands and follows principles and procedures for processing of used/contaminated endoscopes, instrumentation, and reusable supplies and equipment.
Adheres to SPS VHA Directive 1116, Management of Critical and Semi-Critical Reusable Medical Devices regarding personal protective equipment to be worn when performing cleaning/decontamination duties.
Exhibits full understanding of and exercises conscientious adherence to practices of standard precautions in all areas of SPS performance.
Disassembles the RMD and determines the correct cleaning method, such as but not limited to ultrasonic cleaners, mechanical washers, cart washers and chemical cleaning/decontamination agents, as determined by manufacturer instructions.
Inspects, assembles, and determines the correct method and packaging for sterilization such as but not limited to steam, V-pro, Steris, and high-level disinfecting scope reprocessors.
Assembles highly complex instruments sets including, but not limited to, major orthopedic total joint, cardiovascular, and complex endoscopic instrumentation.
Processes all complex endoscopic instrumentation to include those medical devices used in the gastroenterology laboratory, bronchoscopy laboratory, urology, and operating room.
Incumbent disassembles, decontaminates, performs all phases of sterilization, and reassembles items as required, to include intricate surgical trays and microsurgery instruments.
These trays contain large numbers of unique, non-interchangeable, specialized surgical instruments of similar appearance and minor variations in size, conformation, and nomenclature, but with major variation in application.
Checks for damaged or missing items and arranges for replacement, maintenance, or repair as needed.
Performs and documents daily operational checks and records for all sterilization equipment.
Ensures that bio-burden testing is conducted on all endoscopes, both rigid and flexible after manual cleaning is completed.
Performs daily spore testing and sterilizer control measures as it relates to quality assurance principles of sterilization and elimination of cross contamination and determines whether items are free of microorganisms.
Monitors and interprets biological challenges processed for each sterilization cycle.
Applies the Joint Commission, Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Federal Drug Administration standards as they pertain to sterile processing and the distribution of reusable medical equipment.
Performs routine operator maintenance and cleaning of sterilization equipment in accordance with the SPS VHA Directive 1116, Management of Critical and Semi-Critical Reusable Medical Devices and Standard Operating Procedures.
Keeps a daily record of line items processed and sterilized.
Maintains good working communications with the OR Staff, Ambulatory Care, Dental, Podiatry, and other Clinical Staff in order to respond regularly and promptly to their needs for trays, packages and instruments required for scheduled and emergency treatment of patients.
Work Schedule:
Monday-Friday, 7:
00am-3:
30pm Telework:
Not Available Virtual:
This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #:
000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives:
Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS):
Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report:
Not required Requirements Conditions of Employment You must be a U.
S.
Citizen to apply for this job.
All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment.
Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
You may be required to serve a probationary period.
Subject to background/security investigation.
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See Additional Information below for details.
Qualifications Basic Requirements:
United States Citizenship:
Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
Experience and/or Education:
Experience.
Six months of experience that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work or provides an understanding of the work; or Education.
One year above high school that included at least 6 semester hours in health care related courses such as sterile processing, nursing assistant, hospital corpsman, and operating room and surgical technician courses or other courses related to the position; or Experience/Education Combination.
Equivalent combination of experience and education are qualifying for entry level for which both education and experience are acceptable.
English Language Proficiency.
MSTs must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with with 38 U.
S.
C.
7402(d).
Grade Determinations:
The following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates.
GS-3 (Entry Level):
Experience or Education.
None beyond the basic requirements.
GS-4 (Developmental Level):
Experience.
Six months experience as a MST, operating room or surgical technician or other position that demonstrated knowledge of sterile processing in a clinical setting; or Education.
Two years of education above high school that included at least 12 semester hours in courses related to the occupation.
NOTE:
Successful completion of a course for medical technicians, hospital corpsmen, medical service specialists, or nursing assistants obtained in a training program given by the Armed Forces, the U.
S.
Maritime Service, or hospitals under close medical and professional supervision, may be substituted on a month-for-month basis for up to 6 months of experience.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.
In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the KSAs below:
1.
Knowledge of universal precautions for safety and prevention of cross contamination.
2.
Basic knowledge of medical terminology in order to assemble specialty operating room/clinic instrument sets.
3.
Basic knowledge of sterilization and cleaning equipment.
4.
Ability to communicate both orally and in writing.
GS-05 (Developmental Level):
Experience.
One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level; or Education.
Four academic years above high school leading to a Bachelor's degree with at least 12 semester hours in courses related to the occupation or a Bachelor's degree.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.
In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1.
Basic knowledge of surgical instruments used in operating rooms and clinic settings.
2.
Basic knowledge of event-related packaging in regards to sterility.
3.
Knowledge of sterilization and cleaning equipment.
GS-06 (Full Performance Level):
Experience.
One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.
In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1.
Knowledge of surgical instruments used in operating rooms and clinic settings.
2.
Knowledge of universal precautions for safety and prevention of cross contamination.
3.
Working knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, medical conditions and procedures.
4.
Knowledge of sterility principles in regards to instrumentation.
5.
Ability to read and interpret written instructions and procedures.
Preferred
Experience:
Previous sterile processing experience or surgical scrub technician experience.
References:
VA Handbook 5005/83, Part II, Appendix G47.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-6.
The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-3 to GS-6.
Physical Requirements:
You will be asked to participate in a pre-employment examination or evaluation as part of the pre-employment process for this position.
Questions about physical demands or environmental factors may be addressed at the time of evaluation or examination.
Education IMPORTANT:
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note:
Only education or degrees recognized by the U.
S.
Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment.
You can verify your education here:
http:
//ope.
ed.
gov/accreditation/.
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education.
For further information, visit:
http:
//www.
ed.
gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.
html.
Additional Information Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave:
Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee.
Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience.
This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave.
Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply.
The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers.
This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest.
As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran.
This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community.
This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.
01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.
e.
, medical, religious or pregnancy).
VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations.
If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date.
The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Recommended Skills Health Care Hospitalization Registration Nursing Homes Clinical Works Medical Terminology Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
The reprocessing is in support of all clinical services provided within the two division, both in the surgical suites and outpatient areas.
Responsibilities This occupation is currently approved for a Veterans Health Administration enterprise-wide Critical Skills Incentive through 9/21/2024.
Candidates may be eligible for a lump sum CSI for a pro-rated amount if onboard prior to the CSI expiration date.
Eligible candidates will be required to sign a service agreement agreeing to an obligated service period and failure to complete the obligated service period may result in a debt for the unearned portion of the CSI.
Major duties include, but are not limited to, the following:
Understands and follows principles and procedures for processing of used/contaminated endoscopes, instrumentation, and reusable supplies and equipment.
Adheres to SPS VHA Directive 1116, Management of Critical and Semi-Critical Reusable Medical Devices regarding personal protective equipment to be worn when performing cleaning/decontamination duties.
Exhibits full understanding of and exercises conscientious adherence to practices of standard precautions in all areas of SPS performance.
Disassembles the RMD and determines the correct cleaning method, such as but not limited to ultrasonic cleaners, mechanical washers, cart washers and chemical cleaning/decontamination agents, as determined by manufacturer instructions.
Inspects, assembles, and determines the correct method and packaging for sterilization such as but not limited to steam, V-pro, Steris, and high-level disinfecting scope reprocessors.
Assembles highly complex instruments sets including, but not limited to, major orthopedic total joint, cardiovascular, and complex endoscopic instrumentation.
Processes all complex endoscopic instrumentation to include those medical devices used in the gastroenterology laboratory, bronchoscopy laboratory, urology, and operating room.
Incumbent disassembles, decontaminates, performs all phases of sterilization, and reassembles items as required, to include intricate surgical trays and microsurgery instruments.
These trays contain large numbers of unique, non-interchangeable, specialized surgical instruments of similar appearance and minor variations in size, conformation, and nomenclature, but with major variation in application.
Checks for damaged or missing items and arranges for replacement, maintenance, or repair as needed.
Performs and documents daily operational checks and records for all sterilization equipment.
Ensures that bio-burden testing is conducted on all endoscopes, both rigid and flexible after manual cleaning is completed.
Performs daily spore testing and sterilizer control measures as it relates to quality assurance principles of sterilization and elimination of cross contamination and determines whether items are free of microorganisms.
Monitors and interprets biological challenges processed for each sterilization cycle.
Applies the Joint Commission, Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Federal Drug Administration standards as they pertain to sterile processing and the distribution of reusable medical equipment.
Performs routine operator maintenance and cleaning of sterilization equipment in accordance with the SPS VHA Directive 1116, Management of Critical and Semi-Critical Reusable Medical Devices and Standard Operating Procedures.
Keeps a daily record of line items processed and sterilized.
Maintains good working communications with the OR Staff, Ambulatory Care, Dental, Podiatry, and other Clinical Staff in order to respond regularly and promptly to their needs for trays, packages and instruments required for scheduled and emergency treatment of patients.
Work Schedule:
Monday-Friday, 7:
00am-3:
30pm Telework:
Not Available Virtual:
This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #:
000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives:
Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS):
Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report:
Not required Requirements Conditions of Employment You must be a U.
S.
Citizen to apply for this job.
All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment.
Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
You may be required to serve a probationary period.
Subject to background/security investigation.
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See Additional Information below for details.
Qualifications Basic Requirements:
United States Citizenship:
Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
Experience and/or Education:
Experience.
Six months of experience that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work or provides an understanding of the work; or Education.
One year above high school that included at least 6 semester hours in health care related courses such as sterile processing, nursing assistant, hospital corpsman, and operating room and surgical technician courses or other courses related to the position; or Experience/Education Combination.
Equivalent combination of experience and education are qualifying for entry level for which both education and experience are acceptable.
English Language Proficiency.
MSTs must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with with 38 U.
S.
C.
7402(d).
Grade Determinations:
The following criteria must be met when determining the grade of candidates.
GS-3 (Entry Level):
Experience or Education.
None beyond the basic requirements.
GS-4 (Developmental Level):
Experience.
Six months experience as a MST, operating room or surgical technician or other position that demonstrated knowledge of sterile processing in a clinical setting; or Education.
Two years of education above high school that included at least 12 semester hours in courses related to the occupation.
NOTE:
Successful completion of a course for medical technicians, hospital corpsmen, medical service specialists, or nursing assistants obtained in a training program given by the Armed Forces, the U.
S.
Maritime Service, or hospitals under close medical and professional supervision, may be substituted on a month-for-month basis for up to 6 months of experience.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.
In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the KSAs below:
1.
Knowledge of universal precautions for safety and prevention of cross contamination.
2.
Basic knowledge of medical terminology in order to assemble specialty operating room/clinic instrument sets.
3.
Basic knowledge of sterilization and cleaning equipment.
4.
Ability to communicate both orally and in writing.
GS-05 (Developmental Level):
Experience.
One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level; or Education.
Four academic years above high school leading to a Bachelor's degree with at least 12 semester hours in courses related to the occupation or a Bachelor's degree.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.
In addition to the experience or education above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1.
Basic knowledge of surgical instruments used in operating rooms and clinic settings.
2.
Basic knowledge of event-related packaging in regards to sterility.
3.
Knowledge of sterilization and cleaning equipment.
GS-06 (Full Performance Level):
Experience.
One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.
In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1.
Knowledge of surgical instruments used in operating rooms and clinic settings.
2.
Knowledge of universal precautions for safety and prevention of cross contamination.
3.
Working knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, medical conditions and procedures.
4.
Knowledge of sterility principles in regards to instrumentation.
5.
Ability to read and interpret written instructions and procedures.
Preferred
Experience:
Previous sterile processing experience or surgical scrub technician experience.
References:
VA Handbook 5005/83, Part II, Appendix G47.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-6.
The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-3 to GS-6.
Physical Requirements:
You will be asked to participate in a pre-employment examination or evaluation as part of the pre-employment process for this position.
Questions about physical demands or environmental factors may be addressed at the time of evaluation or examination.
Education IMPORTANT:
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note:
Only education or degrees recognized by the U.
S.
Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment.
You can verify your education here:
http:
//ope.
ed.
gov/accreditation/.
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education.
For further information, visit:
http:
//www.
ed.
gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.
html.
Additional Information Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave:
Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee.
Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience.
This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave.
Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply.
The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers.
This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest.
As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran.
This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community.
This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.
01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.
e.
, medical, religious or pregnancy).
VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations.
If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date.
The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Recommended Skills Health Care Hospitalization Registration Nursing Homes Clinical Works Medical Terminology Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
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