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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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1Obtain a high school diploma or a GED.[1] You should have a strong background in science.
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2Take 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]
- 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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3Gain on-the-job experience. You can usually get this experience through jobs or official certification programs.[3]
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4Earn certification through either the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD)[4] or the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).[5]
- 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.
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/
- ↑ https://www.iahcsmm.org/certification.html
- http://education-portal.com/articles/How_to_Become_a_Sterile_Processing_Aide.html
- Sterile Processing Technician