What Is a Sterile Processing Technician?
A Sterile Processing Technician (SPT) – also known as a central service technician or medical equipment preparer – is a crucial member of the healthcare team responsible for maintaining the sterility and availability of medical tools. In simple terms, SPTs are the professionals who make sure every scalpel, forceps, endoscope, and surgical instrument is properly cleaned, sterilized, and ready for safe use on patients. By upholding strict sterilization protocols and infection-control procedures, they help prevent hospital-acquired infections and protect patients as well as healthcare staff.
What does a Sterile Processing Technician do?
On a day-to-day basis, sterile processing techs handle a variety of tasks centered on instrument reprocessing and inventory management. Key responsibilities include:
- Decontaminating and sterilizing surgical instruments
- Operate sterilization devices like steam autoclaves and low-temperature sterilizers
- Inspecting tools for damage or wear
- Packaging and labeling items for storage or immediate use
- Managing inventory and restocking sterile supplies
Requirements to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in California
California does not have a state licensing requirement for SPTs (no state-issued license is required), but employers will expect you to have proper training and national certification. Here’s a summary of the requirements:
- Age and Education: You should be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Basic science and math skills are also important!
- Background Check and Health Screens: Programs or employers may require a background check and up-to-date immunizations (e.g. Hepatitis B, TB test) before you begin clinical training or employment. A clean background (no disqualifying felonies) is often needed to work in hospital settings.
- Sterile Processing Training Program: You must complete an accredited sterile processing technician training program, preferably one approved by California or a national accrediting body. These programs are often offered by community colleges, vocational schools, or institutes, and typically include 400+ hours of combined classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
- Certification: The two main certifying organizations are HSPA (Healthcare Sterile Processing Association, formerly IAHCSMM), which offers the CRCST credential, and CBSPD (Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution). You will need to pass a certification exam and fulfill the prerequisites (such as completing the training hours) to earn one of these credentials.
- Physical Stamina and Skills: Good manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to follow strict procedures are essential. You should be comfortable working with cleaning chemicals and equipment like autoclaves. Strong organizational skills and teamwork are also important, since sterile processing is usually a team effort across multiple shifts.
Cost note: Training program costs can range from about $500 up to $3,000 in California, be sure to factor in additional costs for textbooks, exam fees (~$125 for the CRCST exam), and any required uniforms or immunizations.
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in California
Once you meet the basic eligibility requirements, you can start the process of becoming a certified Sterile Processing Technician. In general, you’ll follow these steps:
1. Find a sterile processing technician class
To locate a class for a sterile processing technician, use Dreambound! In California, training for sterile processing technicians can be done online or in person. Under the supervision of working professionals, on-the-job training should also be accomplished.
Dreambound has a list of accredited training programs for sterile processing technicians that you can search by distance, program duration, accessible payment methods, and more!
2. Meet Sterile Processing Technician class requirements
The requirements listed below are the usual requirements; however, there might be more. The best course of action is to speak with your selected institution to further identify what is required.
- All candidates must be at least 18 years old.
- Every candidate needs to show an identity card issued by the state.
- To be able to work in the United States, you must be a US citizen or be qualified to obtain a Social Security number.
- A high school diploma, GED, or other proof of higher academic degree. (Foreign transcripts obtained outside of the United States need to be assessed for US equivalency)
- A background check stating a clear record or no previous felonies.
3. Complete your class
In sterile processing technician school, topics being covered are microbiology, infection control, sterilization techniques, anatomy & medical terminology, equipment operation, and record-keeping.
4. Get your Sterile Processing Technician certification
After finishing your education, the next step is to get certified – this is critical for employability. The two main certifications for sterile processing are:
1. CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) – offered by HSPA (formerly IAHCSMM).
2. CBSPD Technician Certification – offered by the CBSPD organization.
- Prepare for the exam: Start studying early. Use the official study guides and practice exams (HSPA publishes a CRCST exam prep book and online practice questions).
- Exam and eligibility: To sit for the exam, you’ll register with the respective certification body (submit an application and fee, typically around $125). There are two pathways:
1. Full CRCST Certification: Complete 400 hours of experience before taking the exam (your program’s clinical hours usually count, or you can do volunteer hours at a hospital)
2. Provisional Certification: Take the exam first, then complete 400 hours within 6 months after passing (you’ll be “provisionally” certified until you submit proof of hours).
- Maintain your certification: After certification, remember that you must renew it periodically (usually annually or bi-annually).
5. Work as a Sterile Processing Technician!
After obtaining your Sterile Processing Technician certification, you should first update your resume to reflect this qualification and any relevant experience or skills. Networking is also crucial; connect with those in the healthcare field and attend industry events. Start applying for jobs in hospitals, surgical centers, and clinics, using online job portals and healthcare staffing agencies.
When searching, tools like MyNextMove.org can be helpful to identify typical job requirements and even find local job postings.
Where to Find Sterile Processing Technician Classes in California
Dreambound, the largest platform for comparing vocational training programs, helps you find accredited sterile processing technician classes in California. Whether you're searching for community colleges, technical schools, or university programs, Dreambound offers detailed information to empower your decision-making process. It's never been easier to pinpoint the ideal training program to jump-start your career in sterile processing.
Career Paths and Opportunities
Certified Sterile Processing Technicians can advance to:
- Lead or Senior SPT: In this position, you’ll mentor new techs, handle more complex instrument sets, and possibly have additional responsibilities like ordering supplies or coordinating with the OR on priority cases.
- Department Supervisor: SPDs supervisors manage staffing schedules, ensure compliance with regulations (like The Joint Commission standards), run quality assurance checks, and liaise with operating room management.
- Surgical Technologist: Move closer to the operating room, assisting surgeons directly
- Infection Control Specialist: Focus on broader facility-wide infection prevention strategies
- Educator or Trainer: Teach future SPTs in academic or hospital settings
Frequently Asked Questions
