According to people in this career, the main tasks are...
| Task | Importance |
|---|---|
| Operate and maintain steam autoclaves, keeping records of loads completed, items in loads, and maintenance procedures performed. | 96% |
| Clean instruments to prepare them for sterilization. | 96% |
| Record sterilizer test results. | 95% |
| Organize and assemble routine or specialty surgical instrument trays or other sterilized supplies, filling special requests as needed. | 95% |
| Examine equipment to detect leaks, worn or loose parts, or other indications of disrepair. | 93% |
| Report defective equipment to appropriate supervisors or staff. | 93% |
| Disinfect and sterilize equipment, such as respirators, hospital beds, or oxygen or dialysis equipment, using sterilizers, aerators, or washers. | 92% |
| Maintain records of inventory or equipment usage and order medical instruments or supplies when inventory is low. | 91% |
| Stock crash carts or other medical supplies. | 90% |
| Start equipment and observe gauges and equipment operation to detect malfunctions and to ensure equipment is operating to prescribed standards. | 90% |
| Check sterile supplies to ensure that they are not outdated. | 90% |
| Purge wastes from equipment by connecting equipment to water sources and flushing water through systems. | 89% |
| Deliver equipment to specified hospital locations or to patients' residences. | 85% |
| Install and set up medical equipment, using hand tools. | 80% |
| Attend hospital in-service programs related to areas of work specialization. | 75% |
| Assist hospital staff with patient care duties, such as providing transportation or setting up traction. | 66% |
