Sterile Processing

Program Approval

Earn an industry-recognized credential that local employers highly value. Successful course completion and other requirements make you eligible for the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) Examination. You can also take the Certification Board of Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician Certification Examination.

Course Information

The SPD course is a one-semester 5-credit Basic Vocational Certificate program consisting of classroom and on-campus lab time. The course includes clinical hours for hands-on experience at a healthcare facility, supervised by staff, instructors, and the director. After registering for SGT 100, the ECC Health Professions office will email you about these requirements.

The SPD course covers cleaning, disinfecting, decontamination, inspection, tray assembly, sterilization, and distribution of surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies. The responsibilities of the Central Service Technician are paramount to quality patient care and patient outcomes.

How do I apply for Admission to the Sterile Processing and Distribution Program?

SGT-100 Sterile Processing and Distribution Admission Requirements

Proof of high school diploma and,

One of the following:

• Reading: Grade of C or better in RDG 091 or LTC 099, or satisfaction of other placement criteria.  
• Grade of C or better in HPE 112 within 5 years  

All students registering for SGT 100 must attend an information session or meet with the program director. This ensures they learn strategies to succeed in the program before the semester starts.
 

Illinois requires Health Professions students to have a social security number for a background check at program entry. Students must complete additional requirements, including a drug test, proof of immunizations, and a medical form. These are necessary to attend class and clinicals.

What's the difference between a Central Service Tech and a Sterile Processing Tech?

The quick answer is that there is no difference. Sterile processing duties are known by various names, including Central Sterile Service, Central Service, and Central Processing Service. Other terms include Medical Supply Services and Surgical Instrument Services. The IAHCSMM and CBSPD recognize titles such as Central Service, Central Sterile Service, and Surgical Instrument Services. They offer many types of certification testing options. Central Service technicians are in high demand in Northern Illinois, with hospitals frequently contacting ECC for job opportunities.

What do Sterile Processing Technicians do?

• Operates sterilization equipment and inspects instruments, equipment, and containers to ensure cleanliness and proper functioning.
• Clean, disinfect, and sterilize surgical instruments and trays for hospital departments. 
• Responsible for the decontamination, processing, sterilization, and store procedure trays according to prescribed procedures.

Did you know that Sterile Processing and Distribution is part of the ICAPS program?

The Integrated Career & Academic Preparation System (ICAPS) allows students to earn a certificate while improving their skills. This includes working toward a high school equivalency or enhancing English, reading, or math skills.

Learn more about the ICAPS support program.

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician?

To become a Sterile Processing Technician, one typically needs to complete a high school diploma or equivalent. After that, there are several pathways to enter the field. Some employers hire without experience, offering on-the-job training, while others require a certificate or degree from an accredited program.

Community colleges, vocational schools, and technical institutes offer certificate or diploma programs in sterile processing and distribution. These programs typically take 6 to 12 months to complete and cover topics such as microbiology, infection control, and medical terminology.

To become a Sterile Processing Technician, you need a high school diploma and may need a certificate or diploma program. Earning certification through a recognized organization can improve job prospects and earning potential.

How much do Sterile Processing Technicians make?

Sterile Processing Technicians play a critical role in ensuring that medical equipment and instruments are properly sanitized and ready for use in patient care. Sterile Processing Technician salary can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, and location.

Having a sterile processing technician certification can also impact a technician's earning potential. Certification demonstrates a technician’s expertise, making them more attractive to employers and potentially leading to higher salaries. In addition to certification, continuing education and training can also lead to increased earning potential for Sterile Processing Technicians.

What does a Sterile Processing Technician do?

A Sterile Processing Technician ensures the safety of patients and healthcare professionals by properly sterilizing and preparing medical equipment. They play a vital role in handling instruments, equipment, and supplies. These technicians work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers.

A Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for inspecting, cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing medical equipment and instruments. They use methods like steam sterilization and chemical disinfection. They also assemble, package, and distribute equipment and instruments to the appropriate departments. Sterile Processing Technicians follow strict protocols and regulations to ensure equipment and instruments are properly sterilized and safe for use.

To become a Sterile Processing Technician, individuals can earn certification, demonstrating their knowledge and skills in the field. Certification programs typically involve coursework, hands-on training, and passing an exam. Continuing education and training are also necessary to maintain certification and stay up-to-date on the latest sterilization techniques and regulations.