Sterile Processing Technician

This workforce development course prepares individuals for certification appropriate to work in the Sterile Processing Department through classroom and skills laboratory sessions. Students learn departmental systems associated with the daily functions required to operate as a Sterile Processing Technician. This course covers the processes required in the areas of equipment decontamination, sterile tray assembly, sterilization methods, and supply distribution that are covered on the National Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam provided through Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).  Successful completion of the exam confers a provisional certification. 

Full certification will require 400 hours of overseen practical experience within either 5 years prior to passing the exam or within 6 months after completing the exam. The 400 practical hours must meet or exceed in each category: Decontamination, 120 hours; Preparing & Packaging Instruments, 120 hours; Sterilization & Disinfection, 120 hours; Storage & Distribution, 24 hours; and Quality Assurance Processes, 16 hours. HS Diploma of GED is required. Students not currently employed in sterile processing may secure an initial 80 hours toward full certification via an externship course (AHT252).