Sterilization Technician Onboarding Checklist

Sterilization Technician Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Sterilization Technician starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Healthcare onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Sterilization Technician, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Sterilization Technician onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Sterilization Technician Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The new sterilization technician should attend a comprehensive orientation program that introduces them to the company’s mission, values, policies, and procedures. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated orientation coordinator.

2. Facility Tour: The new technician should be given a tour of the healthcare facility, including the sterilization department, to familiarize themselves with the layout, equipment, and safety protocols. This task is usually performed by a supervisor or a senior technician.

3. Introduction to Team: The new technician should be introduced to their immediate team members, including supervisors, colleagues, and other support staff. This introduction helps foster a sense of belonging and encourages collaboration. Typically, a supervisor or team leader performs this task.

4. Training on Sterilization Techniques: The new technician should receive comprehensive training on various sterilization techniques, including proper handling and cleaning of instruments, equipment, and supplies. This training is usually conducted by a senior technician or a designated trainer.

5. Familiarization with Sterilization Equipment: The new technician should be trained on the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of sterilization equipment such as autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, and sterilization wraps. This training is typically provided by a senior technician or equipment specialist.

6. Understanding Infection Control Protocols: The new technician should receive training on infection control protocols, including hand hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, and proper disposal of contaminated materials. This training is usually conducted by an infection control specialist or a designated trainer.

7. Documentation and Record-Keeping: The new technician should be trained on the proper documentation and record-keeping procedures related to sterilization processes, including logbooks, sterilization cycle records, and quality control documentation. This training is typically provided by a supervisor or a designated trainer.

8. Compliance with Regulatory Standards: The new technician should receive training on the regulatory standards and guidelines governing sterilization practices, such as those set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This training is usually conducted by a compliance officer or a designated trainer.

9. Understanding Emergency Procedures: The new technician should be familiarized with emergency procedures specific to the sterilization department, including fire safety, evacuation protocols, and response to medical emergencies. This training is typically provided by a safety officer or a designated trainer.

10. Quality Assurance and Quality Control: The new technician should receive training on quality assurance and quality control processes, including monitoring sterilization effectiveness, conducting biological indicator tests, and participating in quality improvement initiatives. This training is usually provided by a quality assurance specialist or a designated trainer.

11. Continuing Education Opportunities: The new technician should be informed about ongoing education and professional development opportunities, such as workshops, conferences, and certifications, to enhance their knowledge and skills in sterilization practices. This information is typically provided by the human resources department or a designated education coordinator.

12. Performance Evaluation and Feedback: The new technician should be informed about the company’s performance evaluation process and provided with regular feedback to support their professional growth and development. This task is typically performed by a supervisor or a designated performance management team.

13. Introduction to Support Services: The new technician should be introduced to support services within the company, such as central supply, materials management, and infection control, to understand their roles and how they collaborate with the sterilization department. This introduction is usually facilitated by a supervisor or a designated liaison.

14. Compliance with Ethical Standards: The new technician should receive training on ethical standards and professional conduct expected in the healthcare industry, including patient confidentiality, respect for diversity, and maintaining professional boundaries. This training is typically provided by a compliance officer or a designated trainer.

15. Integration into the Company Culture: The new technician should be encouraged to participate in company-wide activities, team-building events, and social gatherings to foster a sense of belonging and promote a positive work culture. This integration is typically facilitated by the human resources department or a designated culture ambassador

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Sterilization Technician checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Sterilization Technician up to speed and working well in your Healthcare team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.