How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Obtain a high school diploma or a GED.

   You should have a strong background in science.
2. 2

   Step 2: Take certification courses at community colleges

   There are several schools which offer online courses.
   
   Career colleges offer 10 weeks programs, community colleges- 1 to 2 years programs.
   
   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. , You can usually get this experience through jobs or official certification programs. , 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.
3. 3

   Step 3: career colleges

4. 4

   Step 4: or take an online course.

5. 5

   Step 5: Gain on-the-job experience.

6. 6

   Step 6: Earn certification through either the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).

Detailed Guide

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