Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Key responsibilities

• To work in accordance with Departmental Quality Policy, Standard Operating procedures and Quality management System.

• To reprocess reusable medical devices: disassemble, clean, disinfect, inspect, assemble, sterilise, dispatch and track in a control environment.
• To provide advice and training to Apprentice decontamination technician, trainee nurses and HCA.

• To provide a collection and delivery services to Department’s customers

• To inform the Decontamination team leader of any raw material shortages and ensure stock is located.

• Under limited supervision meet the demands of the Department’s workload whilst consistently achieving high quality standards which will be measured by in-process check and non-conformance report.

• To undertake initial investigation into non-conformances reports as instructed.

• To use manual dexterity and concentration for the disassembly of the reusable medical devices with accordance with the Manufacturer’s instructions

• To operate decontamination equipment and carry out routine tests in accordance with Quality Standards and Guidance

• To communicate with enquiries from users and other members of healthcare staff in a polite and helpful manner, seeking scientific advice where required

• To undertake duties consistent with the responsibility of the grade and needs of the service.

• Prepare and maintain high standards of cleanliness in the working environment

• Prepare and maintain consultation/examination/procedure rooms for use ensuring that necessary equipment, information/documentation are available at all times

• Assist in the preparation of notes and documents for patient lists

• Be able to assist the endoscopist with a range of diagnostic procedures performed in the endoscopy unit.

• Be familiar with, and work to, the protocols and policies of the endoscopy department and trust policies

• Accurately record & file patient information

• Transport specimens, test requests, notes or any charts as requested

• Provide patient care/treatment as directed by the registered nurse and in accordance with the boundaries of assessed competency to support the patient’s treatment plan

• Provide support to staff and patients during endoscopy procedures 

• Be capable of ensuring that equipment is in working order and report faults accordingly.

• Escort patients to other wards/departments as required

• Encourage users to give feedback on their experience

• Protect and maintain patient confidentiality at all times in line with trust polices

• Undertake delegated duties as directed by the registered nurse

• Deal with all enquiries politely and effectively in all circumstances and seek support from a registered nurse as appropriate

• Undertake extended skills specific to individual competence under the indirect supervision of the registered nurse

• To be responsible for reporting incidents and potential risks to the sister / charge nurse

Key working relationships

• Gastrointestinal Physicians
• Colorectal Consultants
• Head of Decontamination
• Lead Nurse for Endoscopy
• Decontamination Team Leader
• Senior and Specialist Nurses
• Other diagnostic team
• Department of Nursing

Roles and responsibilities

1.0 Scientific and Technical

• To contribute to developing the service to ensure that delivery of medical device decontamination is safe, effective and follows best practice.
• To contribute to developing the service to ensure that delivery of medical device decontamination is safe, effective and follows best practice.
• To maintain high standards of department safety ensuring the health, safety and welfare of self and others
• To demonstrate agreed standards of personal and professional development within defined timescales
• To refer appropriate issues and to raise uncertainties with senior staff
• To maintain security of the Decontamination Department(s), equipment and chemicals in accordance with the Department’s Policy.
• To actively participate in the Organisation’s appraisal system and personal development planning process in accordance with Organisation’s Policy.
• To ensure safe handling of transportation trolleys and reusable medical

2.0 Education and Training

• To maintain compliance to all statutory and mandatory training as defined by the organisation and service needs.
• To comply with the Department’s training programme and undertake training in line with the development of the post, as agreed with line manager.
• To continually develop and maintain a portfolio of evidence of training and CPD activities.
• To have an understanding of the Department’s Quality Policy, Quality Manual and Standard Operating Procedures to ensure that a high standard of work is maintained at all times.
• To be familiar with data protection and Caldecott issues relating to the use and storage of patient information
• To assist in the training of other decontamination personnel to perform tasks as directed by the Decontamination Team Leader.
• To maintain and be able to use IT systems

3.0 Infection Control

• Demonstrate knowledge of infection control techniques and hand hygiene
• Demonstrate knowledge of safe disposal of sharps into appropriate container
• Understand universal safety techniques with regard to spillages
• Keep all areas clean, tidy and in good order
• Report any faulty or broken equipment to the manager, label a

4.0 Professional Development

• Ensure mandatory training and a satisfactory appraisal is in date
• Undertake a professional development plan and demonstrate achievement of objectives
• Ensure adherence to Trust policy and  JAG guidelines at all times
• Role model Trust values at all times.

5.0 Communication

• Ensure all communication, which may be complex, contentious or sensitive, is undertaken in a responsive and inclusive manner, focusing on improvement and ways to move forward.
• Ensure all communication is presented appropriately to the different recipients, according to levels of understanding, type of communication being imparted and possible barriers such as language, culture, understanding or physical or mental health conditions.

This job description may be subject to change according to the varying needs of the service. Such changes will be made after discussion between the post holder and his/her manager.

All duties must be carried out under supervision or within Trust policy and procedure. You must never undertake any duties that are outside your area of skill or knowledge level. If you are unsure you must seek clarification from a more senior member of staff.

All duties must be carried out under supervision or within Trust policy and procedure. You must never undertake any duties that are outside your area of skill or knowledge level. If you are unsure you must seek clarification from a more senior member of staff.