Sterile Processing Technician

Objective

The role of the sterile processing technician is to perform all aspects of sterile processing functions with basic surgical instruments in the healthcare workplace. The objective of the Sterile Processing program is to prepare students with the knowledge and skills needed to seek entry-level positions as sterile processing technicians in hospitals, medical centers, and other centralized medical facilities.

Description

The Sterile Processing Technician ensures that instruments and equipment used by medical personnel are contaminant free. In the Sterile Processing Technician program, students are instructed on proper techniques to clean and sterilize medical instruments and to use infection control methods. Students will learn the proper names and categories of medical instruments, equipment, and supplies and how to properly handle, transfer, store, inventory, and distribute these items. The program includes classroom study, practice in lab environments and hands-on, real-world experience.

Academic Progression

In addition to meeting the standards set in the Satisfactory Academic Progress policy, students must complete all concentration courses and prerequisite science courses with a minimum grade of “C+” to be considered passing. Any concentration course below a grade of C+ must be retaken. A student can attempt a concentration course no more than two times. Any student who fails to pass a concentration course after two attempts is subject to dismissal from the program.

Externship

An externship course is included in this program to provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to real-life situations in a healthcare setting. Students are required to complete the required externship hours and other related learning activities prior to graduation. Students are not paid for work performed at the externship site.

Credentialing Exams

Students in their final quarter are required to sit for the provisional certification exam offered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) credential.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Sterile Processing Technology program are prepared to seek entry-level employment in outpatient surgery centers or in physicians’ offices or dentists’ offices where outpatient surgery is performed.