Sterile Processing Technician

Start Your Career as a Sterile Processing Technician

4-6* Months Completion Time

8-10 Hours Weekly Commitment

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What is a Sterile Processing Technician?

Sterile processing technicians perform and participate in decontamination, cleaning, assembling, packaging, scanning, sterilization, storage, and distribution of reusable surgical instrumentation and equipment.

They also assist the surgeon in donning PPE as well as transport the patient to the OR, position and drape the patient for the specific procedure, prepare the skin for the procedure, and assist the surgeon as needed during the procedure.

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Take the next step forward and connect with your dedicated Admission Representatives for more information.

What Does a Sterile Processing Technician Do?

The 100% online Sterile Processing Technician program is designed to prepare students to function as a sterile processing professional in multiple healthcare settings.

Sterile processing technicians perform and participate in decontamination, cleaning, assembling, packaging, scanning, sterilization, storage, and distribution of reusable surgical instrumentation and equipment.

In This Program You Will:

  • Learn medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology
  • Describe the body’s defense against infection and the factors that affect the body’s susceptibility to diseased
  • Learn about sterile storage and transportation
  • Outline the standards required for a quality decontamination process
  • Distinguish between regulated medical waste and non-infectious waste

Requirements:

  • Undergraduate degree or high school diploma
  • Web browser with internet connection
  • Course registration & payment

Program Materials Provided:

  • Expert-led video-based training
  • Competency assessments
  • National Certification exam fees (Surgical Technologist Certification exam)
online-education

What Can You Do with a Sterile Processing Technician Certificate?

As the healthcare industry continues to grow, and the need for sterile medical equipment in various procedures remains critical, the demand for sterile processing technicians is expected to rise.

Careers to Explore

Sterile processing technicians work in environments where sterilization of medical instruments is required, including hospitals, outpatient care centers, laboratories and more.

As a graduate you may be eligible for these careers:

  • Surgical Technologist
  • Operating Room Technician
  • Surgical and Sterile Prep Technologist

High Demand for Sterile Processing Technicians

The demand for healthcare professionals, including Sterile Processing Technologists, is expected to grow significantly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033**.

Get Certified as a Sterile Processing Technician & Stand Out to Employers

Upon successful completion of your sterile processing technician courses, you will be prepared to take the leading national/industry-recognized certification exams essential to entry-level employment in this fast-growing field, including:

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Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA)

Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST)

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National Workforce Career Association (NWCA)

Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CMAC)

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Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD)

SPD Technician (SPD) Certification

You will receive one complimentary voucher for the certification exam of your choice.

How Much Does a Sterile Processing Technician Certificate Cost?

$4,000

Total Tuition

Lowest available price

Connect with an Admission Representative to explore payment plans available to you.

Payment Plan Details: Enrollment requires a minimum deposit of $500. Installment payments will begin 30 days after the course start date.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Sterile Processing Technician do in a healthcare setting?

A Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and preparing medical instruments and equipment for surgeries and other procedures in healthcare facilities.

What are the certification requirements to become a Sterile Processing Technician?

To become certified, you typically need to complete a sterile processing technician program and pass the certification exam, such as the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam.

Are there online programs available for Sterile Processing Technician training?

Yes, in fact this program is 100% online. Some hands on experience is needed for full certification.

How long does it take to complete a Sterile Processing Technician program?

A Sterile Processing Technician program can take up to 1 year to complete. Our program is 4-6 months*

What courses are included in a Sterile Processing Technician program?

Courses cover decontamination procedures, sterilization techniques, infection control, equipment handling, surgical instrument identification, and storage processes, along with clinical training.

What are the career prospects for a certified Sterile Processing Technician?

Certified Sterile Processing Technicians can work in hospitals, surgical centers, dental clinics, and outpatient facilities, ensuring medical instruments are properly sterilized and safe for use.

How do Sterile Processing Technicians contribute to patient safety?

Sterile Processing Technicians help prevent infections by ensuring that all surgical and medical instruments are properly sterilized and meet strict hygiene and safety standards before use.

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Accreditation & Licensed Certifying Bodies

Our certificate programs are accredited by reputable institutions recognized in the industry. We partner with accredited organizations to ensure the quality and validity of our certifications.

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* Program length when completed in normal time.

**https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/surgical-technologists.htm#tab-6