Is Sterile Processing Technician a Good Job? Pros and Cons
Summary
Yes, sterile processing technician is a good job - the job pays well (especially travel roles) and there is good work-life balance. Plus, the training involved is short and affordable (3-9 months). However, tasks can be repetitive and some work environments can be physically or emotionally demanding.
Pros:
- Short and affordable training (3-9 months). See cheapest and fastest SPT programs
- Training can be done online
- Can pay well, especially travel roles
- Good work-life balance
- Opportunity to level up into manager roles
Cons:
- Repetitive tasks
- Some work environments can be challenging. In some workplaces, coworkers might not respect the Sterile Processing Technician role
- Physically demanding
Are you considering a career as a Sterile Processing Technician? Before making a decision, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of this job. In this blog post, we will explore the various aspects of being a Sterile Processing Technician, including the job responsibilities, required skills and qualifications, career outlook, and factors to consider before pursuing this career. By the end, you will have a better understanding of whether this is the right path for you.
Factors to consider before deciding on a career as a Sterile Processing Technician
Before diving into a career as a Sterile Processing Technician, consider the following factors:
- Job satisfaction: Reflect on whether the responsibilities and daily tasks of a Sterile Processing Technician align with your interests and professional goals.
- Work environment: Sterile Processing Technicians typically work in sterile processing departments within hospitals, surgical centers, or other healthcare facilities. Consider whether this type of work environment is a good fit for you.
- Career advancement opportunities: While there are opportunities for career growth as a Sterile Processing Technician, consider whether you have long-term career goals that may require further education or training.
- Training programs: Research and explore different training programs or certification courses available to become a Sterile Processing Technician. Dreambound, the largest platform for students to find vocational training programs, can help you find the perfect class that fits your needs.
Other certifications to consider
If you're looking to become a Sterile Processing Technician, there might be some other certifications worth considering:
- Phlebotomy - If you like working with medical equiment but also still want to be involved in the clinical side of healthcare, consider phlebotomy. Phlebotomy is the work of drawing blood for the purposes of diagnostics. Similar to Sterile Processing Techs, phlebotomists are involved in cleaning medical instruments and equipment. Phlebotomy is also a short training that can be done online - even shorter than sterile processing (can be as short as a couple of weeks).
- Surgical Technician - If you like the equipment preparation aspect of sterile processing and are also excited by surgeries, consider being a surgical tech. Surgical Techs are one of the most commonly considered certifications next to Sterile Processing Technicians. Surgical Techs make sure that surgical environments are sterile and that equipment used for surgery is ready to be used. However, surgical tech training takes a bit longer and is a bit more expensive as a result.
- Dental Assistants also help with sterilizing and disinfecting instruments and equipment. If you like the dental environment, which is a bit more relaxed, then consider this role.
Final Thoughts
Being a Sterile Processing Technician can be a rewarding career choice for individuals interested in healthcare and infection control. The job stability, short training period, and opportunity for growth are attractive aspects of this profession. However, it's important to consider the physical demands, limited patient interaction, and repetitive nature of the job. By carefully weighing the pros and cons and considering your personal interests and goals, you can make an informed decision about whether pursuing a career as a Sterile Processing Technician is the right path for you.
Remember, Dreambound is here to assist you in finding the best vocational training programs, such as Sterile Processing Technician courses, to kick-start your career. Dreambound's mission is to provide all the information students need to find the perfect class. Visit Dreambound today to explore the various vocational training options available to you.
Consider Dreambound as a valuable resource if you're thinking about getting started in this field. We've written many guides to help with the different parts of the certification process across the country:
- How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Colorado
- How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Iowa
- How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Michigan
- How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in New Jersey
- How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Wisconsin
Weighing the possibilities of a career shift? Check out some our other guides:
Jessa Guzon is a member of the School Growth and Customer Success Team in Dreambound. She finds joy in assisting both schools and students in reaching their goals by answering their queries and connecting them with the right people. Outside her professional role, Jessa is a happy-go-lucky person with a thirst for adventure.
