Contents
A sterile tech is a medical professional who is responsible for sterilizing surgical equipment and maintaining a sterile environment in the operating room.
Checkout this video:
Job Description
A sterile processing technician, also known as a SPD technician or a central service technician, is responsible for decontaminating, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing medical instruments, equipment, and supplies used in surgical procedures.
Duties
A sterile processing technician, also known as a SPD tech, is a medical professional who is responsible for cleaning, sterilizing and repairing surgical equipment. SPD techs work in hospitals and surgery centers and are an important part of the surgical team.
The duties of an SPD tech include cleaning and disinfecting surgical instruments, preparing rooms for surgery, sterilizing equipment and making sure that all instruments are in working order. SPD techs also maintain sterile supplies and equipment, perform quality control checks and keep accurate records.
In order to work as an SPD tech, you will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Many SPD techs complete a certificate or associate’s degree program in sterile processing technology. You will also need to pass a state-approved certification exam.
Skills
A sterile technician, also known as a surgical technician or a surgical tech, is an important member of the operating room team. Sterile techs are responsible for maintaining the sterile environment of the operating room and ensuring that all instruments and supplies are sterilized and ready for use.
In order to be successful in this role, sterile techs must have excellent attention to detail and be able to work well under pressure. They must also be able to follow instructions carefully and have a good working knowledge of sterile techniques.
Education and Training
To become a sterile processing technician, also called a central service technician, you usually need to complete a certificate or diploma program in sterile processing, which takes about a year. Some community colleges, technical colleges, and hospitals offer these programs. Some sterile processing technicians may have on-the-job-training instead of completing a formal education program.
Certification
Sterile processing technicians, also called SPD technicians or central service technicians, work in hospitals and other medical facilities. They clean and maintain surgical instruments and equipment. They also prepare items for surgery by sterilizing them.
Most sterile processing technicians have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs require prospective students to have completed a health sciences education program, such as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) program. Many facilities offer on-the-job training for sterile processing technician positions. Some community colleges and vocational schools offer certificate or diploma programs in sterile processing technology, which can take up to a year to complete.
Many states have certification programs for sterile processing technicians. Certification is not required in all states, but it may be preferred or required by some employers. Certification typically requires completing an accredited program and passing an exam.
Salary
In May 2018, the median annual salary for sterile processing technicians was $37,520, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,530, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $54,490.
Career Outlook
A sterile processing technician, also called a central service technician, is responsible for the decontamination, cleaning, assembly, and sterilization of surgical instruments and equipment. They work in healthcare facilities and are an important part of the surgical team. If you’re interested in a career in sterile processing, read on to learn more about the job outlook, duties, and necessary skills.
Job Growth
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of sterile processing technicians will grow 15 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. Population growth, an aging population, and advances in medical technology will all contribute to the demand for these workers.
Related Careers
Sterile processing technicians, also called surgical technologists, central service technicians, or sterile processing and distribution (SPD) technicians, work in hospitals and other healthcare settings. They prepare instruments and supplies for surgeries and other medical procedures.
The job outlook for sterile processing techs is good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of surgical technologists will grow much faster than average—by 12 percent from 2018 to 2028. This growth is due in part to an aging population that will require more medical procedures as they live longer. In addition, the number of surgeries performed each year is expected to grow as new technologies allow more procedures to be performed laparoscopically or robotically; these types of surgeries require highly skilled surgical technologists to assist surgeons.
