Sterile processing technicians are an integral but often overlooked part of medical teams. These technicians are responsible for inventorying, packaging and sterilizing medical instruments. This is a key part of controlling infection in the medical workplace. This article will tell you how to become a sterile processing technician in the U.S.
Steps
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Obtain a high school diploma or a GED. [1] X Research source You should have a strong background in science.
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Take certification courses at community colleges, career colleges, or take an online course. There are several schools which offer online courses. Career colleges offer 10 weeks programs, community colleges 1 to 2 years programs. [2] X Research source
- Some of these sterile processing technician programs offer traditional instruction combined with hands-on training in the hospitals, medical centers or surgery centers. Check with the schools in your area or on industry oriented websites.
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Gain on-the-job experience. You can usually get this experience through jobs or official certification programs. [3] X Research source
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Earn certification through either the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) [4] X Research source or the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).
- Sterile Processing Technician Certification is required by law only in 2 states at the moment, New York and New Jersey. But most employers require certification. There are 2 kinds of certification, CBSPD and IAHCSMM. Certification requirements vary between the CBSPD and IAHCSMM. Check each association for updated information.
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Tips
- Plan on getting as much hands-on experience as possible. IAHCSMM organization usually requires 1 year or 400 hours of experience to pass the board exam.Thanks
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References
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0LVztJftbg
- ↑ https://www.ziprecruiter.com/e/How-Do-You-Become-a-Sterile-Processing-Technician
- ↑ https://www.ziprecruiter.com/e/How-Do-You-Become-a-Sterile-Processing-Technician
- ↑ https://www.cbspd.net/tech/
- http://education-portal.com/articles/How_to_Become_a_Sterile_Processing_Aide.html
- Sterile Processing Technician
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