CSSD Technician

Tirupati, India

Roles of CSSD Technician

Sterile Supply Chain Management
Ensure uninterrupted supply of sterilized instruments, linen, dressing materials, trays, and surgical sets to all hospital departments.
Maintain accountability for sterility from collection → decontamination → sterilization → storage → distribution.
Infection Control & Patient Safety
Adhere to hospital infection prevention protocols and NABH standards.
Prevent cross-contamination and hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).
Work under guidance of Infection Control Nurse/Committee.
Compliance with NABH Standards
Follow documented policies, SOPs, and checklists for CSSD processes.
Ensure traceability of sterilized items through labeling, batch records, and sterilization logs.

Responsibilities of CSSD Technician

Collection & Segregation
Collect used instruments, equipment, and materials from OT, ICU, wards, and OPD.
Segregate contaminated, sharp, and delicate instruments as per hospital SOPs.
Decontamination & Cleaning
Perform manual/mechanical cleaning of instruments with enzymatic detergents or ultrasonic cleaners.
Ensure proper use of PPE (gloves, apron, mask, goggles) while handling soiled instruments.
Inspection & Packing
Inspect cleaned instruments for integrity, sharpness, and function.
Assemble instrument sets and pack them with appropriate wrapping material/pouches.
Use chemical indicators inside packs as per NABH guidelines.
Sterilization Process
Operate and monitor sterilizers (Autoclave, ETO, Plasma Sterilizer, Hot Air Oven, etc.).
Select appropriate sterilization method based on material type.
Maintain sterilizer performance logs (temperature, pressure, cycle records).
Quality Assurance
Conduct routine checks with biological and chemical indicators.
Document sterilization cycles, test reports, and validation records.
Report any non-conformities immediately.
Storage & Distribution
Store sterilized packs in designated clean storage areas with proper labeling.
Ensure FIFO (First In First Out) principle to avoid expired sterility.
Supply sterilized items promptly to OT, ICU, Wards, and other units.
Documentation & Record-Keeping
Maintain records of sterilization cycles, load tests, maintenance logs, and distribution registers.
Ensure traceability in case of infection outbreaks or audit requirements.
Maintenance & Safety
Carry out routine cleaning and minor maintenance of sterilization equipment.
Report breakdowns promptly to Biomedical Engineering/maintenance team.
Follow safety protocols for handling chemicals (ETO, disinfectants).
Training & Continuous Learning
Attend hospital training programs on infection control and sterilization updates.
Assist in training junior staff and new recruits.