The hospital corridors are quiet when you arrive at work. You begin by preparing instrument trays for attending physicians and surgeons. Throughout the day, you sterilize instruments and monitor the autoclave to be sure it’s working properly. You also inspect equipment and report any problems you see. As a certified sterile processing technician, these are a few of the tasks you may perform.
What Do Sterile Processing Technicians Do?
Sterile processing technicians work in in hospitals, inpatient and outpatient clinics and other healthcare facilities. Some people in this profession also work in dentists’ offices. Their job responsibilities may include:
- Manually cleaning instruments prior to sterilization
- Sterilizing instruments by placing them in autoclaves or similar devices
- Monitoring these devices and reporting problems
- Assembling instrument trays
- Examining and testing equipment and recording the results
- Overseeing the distribution of medical instruments
- Ordering supplies
- Ensuring that equipment and materials are within their expiration date
What Is the Employment Outlook for Sterile Processing Technicians?
With larger numbers of the population growing older, the demand for medical services is increasing. That makes the employment outlook especially promising for healthcare workers. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for this occupation (medical equipment preparer) was $35,370 (as of May 2017). Through 2024, job growth in this area is projected at 14%, higher than most other sectors.
How Do I Become a Certified Sterile Processing Technician?
It may be possible to enter this field with a high school diploma and learn the required skills through on-the-job training. However, you will stand out from the crowd when looking for employment if you already have a credential, which you can earn through a community college or vocational program. In most cases, you can obtain your certification in one year or less. Sterile processing technician schools cover the following topics:
- Medical terminology
- Aseptic technique
- Infection control
- Bloodborne pathogens
- Patient privacy
- Quality assurance
- Professional development
The sterile processing program at Ashworth College allows you to complete your course and be prepared for your certification exams in just a few months. You will have online access to the resources you need– textbooks, library, academic support, career services, and more! You can be officially credentialed when you pass the exam. Additionally, the cost of our program includes the cost of the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM) Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) Certification exam, which an additional $125 value.
Working as a sterile processing technician can be challenging and rewarding. Ready to get started? Contact us to learn more or enroll today.