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Begin a critical healthcare career as a certified sterile processing technician (SPT). Sterile Processing Technicians, also known as Central Service Technicians, prevent infection by sterilizing, cleaning, processing, assembling, storing, and distributing medical supplies. This 100% online sterile processing technician course will train you to work as an SPT and will also prepare you for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification offered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA)—all in 12 months or less.
You will learn all the necessary steps required to perform the duties and tasks of an SPT as you gain confidence to begin your new career. Gain proficiency in the step-by-step requirements of the sterilization process and fully prepare to pass the CRCST exam. A voucher for the exam is included in the cost of your course.
Registration and Enrollment
This course is 100% online. Start anytime.
A Sterile Processing Technician, also known as a Central Services Technician, is responsible for preventing infection by sterilizing, cleaning, processing, assembling, storing, and distributing medical supplies and equipment. These professionals play a critical role in healthcare.
The Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) is a certification granted by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA). The CRCST is a certification program designed for entry-level and existing technicians who demonstrate the knowledge, experience, and skills needed to show competence as a sterile processing technician.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that job demand for sterile processing technicians and similar positions will increase by 6% through 2031. It estimates that 7,700 jobs will be opened each year in this job category.
The BLS reports that medical equipment preparers earn an average salary of $42,420 per year, with the top earners pulling in over $60,000.
According to the BLS, California, New York, Texas, Ohio, and Florida are among the states with the highest employment in this field.
Define the sterile processor role, responsibilities, professional skill set, and communication expectations (including accurate use of medical terminology and anatomy) required in the central processing and surgical services departments
Identify sterile processing regulations and standards providing by regulatory agencies and professional associations to ensure workplace safety, infection prevention, and proper support for the ancillary departments
Discuss basic procedures and best practices for each phase of sterile processing, including decontamination, inspection, preparation, and sterilization of medical instruments and supplies
Understand sterile storage considerations, guidelines, concerns, and common quality assurance procedures in the sterile processing department
Discuss the importance of following procedures to care for loaner instruments and manage inventory while using information management systems
Describe how to adhere to compliance when handling documentation and maintaining records
Explain the importance of effective communication, human relations, and personal development and how improving these skills can impact the career of a sterile processing technician
Understand all the tasks related to the role and responsibilities of an SPT
To sit for the national certification exam, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent; it is recommended that you have this before enrolling in this program.