Introduction
CSST Technician role in operation theatre is very important for maintaining sterility and infection control in hospitals. A CSST Technician (Certified Sterile Supply Technician) plays a crucial role in maintaining sterility and infection control within hospitals, especially in the operating theatre. Their responsibility is to ensure that all surgical instruments and medical devices are properly cleaned, sterilised, and supplied for safe surgical procedures.
Without the support of CSST Technicians, safe and infection-free surgeries are not possible.
What is CSST?
CSST stands for Certified Sterile Supply Technician. Thisparamedical profession mainly works in the Central Sterile Services Department (CSSD) of a hospital. CSST Technicians are responsible for the complete cycle of instrument processing, from decontamination to sterilisation and distribution. The CSST Technician role in operation theatre supports safe surgeries.
They follow strict hospital protocols and international standards to prevent surgical site infections.
Role of CSST Technician in Operation Theatre
Pre-Operative Role
Before surgery, the CSST Technician:
- Receives used instruments from the operating theatre
- Performs cleaning and decontamination
- Inspects instruments for damage or malfunction
- Assembles instrument sets according to surgery type
- Packs and labels instruments for sterilization
Sterilization Responsibilities
CSST Technicians are responsible for:
- Operating sterilisation equipment such as autoclaves
- Monitoring sterilisation parameters (temperature, pressure, time)
- Using chemical and biological indicators
- Maintaining sterilisation records and documentation
Intra-Operative Support
During surgeries, CSST Technicians:
- Ensure timely supply of sterile instruments
- Replace contaminated or damaged instruments
- Coordinate with OT staff for urgent requirements
Post-Operative Role
After surgery, CSST Technicians:
- Collect used instruments from OT
- Segregate and transport them safely to CSSD
- Follow proper biomedical waste disposal procedures
- Prepare instrument sets for the next surgery
Skills Required for a CSST Technician
To perform efficiently, a CSST Technician must have:
- Strong knowledge of sterilisation methods
- Understanding of infection control principles
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work under pressure
- Good communication and teamwork skills
Educational Qualification
Common qualifications include:
- Diploma in CSST / CSSD Technology
- Certificate courses in Sterile Supply or Infection Control
- Paramedical background preferred
Career Scope of CSST Technician
CSST Technicians can work in:
- Government hospitals
- Private hospitals
- Multi-speciality surgical centres
- Trauma and transplant hospitals
- Overseas healthcare facilities
With experience, they can advance to Senior CSST Technician, CSSD Supervisor, or Infection Control Officer roles.
Importance of CSST in Operation Theatre
CSST Technicians are essential for:
- Preventing surgical site infections
- Maintaining sterile surgical environments
- Ensuring patient safety
- Supporting smooth OT workflow
They form the backbone of infection control in hospitals.
CSST Technician Role in Saudi Hospitals
In Saudi Arabia, CSST Technicians are expected to follow strict infection control and sterilisation standards. They work closely with operation theatre staff and ensure compliance with international healthcare guidelines. Proper documentation, use of indicators, and safe handling of instruments are mandatory in Saudi hospitals. In Saudi hospitals, the CSST Technician role in the operating theatre is highly valued.
This profession offers stable job opportunities and career growth for qualified paramedical professionals
Conclusion
The role of a CSST Technician in the operating theatre is highly important and responsible. It is a stable and respected paramedical career with strong demand in India and abroad. For students interested in sterilisation, infection control, and OT support services, CSST is an excellent career option.
