What is a Pharmacy Technician and Sterile Processing Technician?

Pharmacy Technician: A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who assists pharmacists in dispensing medications to patients. They work in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, retail pharmacies, and long-term care facilities. Pharmacy technicians are responsible for tasks such as counting and measuring medication doses, preparing prescription labels, and managing inventory.

Sterile Processing Technician: A sterile processing technician, also known as a central sterile processing technician or a sterile processing and distribution technician, is responsible for ensuring that surgical instruments and equipment are properly sterilized and prepared for use in medical procedures. They work in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities. Sterile processing technicians are responsible for tasks such as cleaning and decontaminating instruments, assembling surgical trays, and operating sterilization equipment.

Difference between a Pharmacy Technician and a Sterile Processing Technician

While both pharmacy technicians and sterile processing technicians work in the healthcare field, their roles and responsibilities differ significantly. Here are some key differences between the two professions:

1. Job Focus: Pharmacy technicians primarily focus on medication-related tasks, such as preparing prescriptions, managing inventory, and assisting pharmacists. On the other hand, sterile processing technicians focus on ensuring that surgical instruments are properly sterilized and prepared for medical procedures.

2. Patient Interaction: Pharmacy technicians often have direct interaction with patients. They may answer questions about medications, provide medication counseling, and process insurance claims. Sterile processing technicians, on the other hand, have minimal to no patient interaction. Their primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and sterility of surgical instruments.

3. Work Environment: Pharmacy technicians typically work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare settings where medications are dispensed. Sterile processing technicians work in sterile processing departments within hospitals or surgical centers.

4. Responsibilities: Pharmacy technicians are responsible for tasks such as counting and measuring medication doses, preparing prescription labels, and managing inventory. Sterile processing technicians are responsible for tasks such as cleaning and decontaminating instruments, assembling surgical trays, and operating sterilization equipment.

Pharmacy Technician vs Sterile Processing Technician: Job Description

To better understand the specific job duties of pharmacy technicians and sterile processing technicians, let's take a closer look at their job descriptions:

Pharmacy Technician Job Description:

• Assist pharmacists in dispensing medications to patients.
• Count and measure medication doses.
• Prepare prescription labels.
• Manage inventory and restock medications.
• Process insurance claims and handle billing.
• Answer patient questions about medications.
• Provide medication counseling.
• Maintain patient records.

Sterile Processing Technician Job Description:

• Clean and decontaminate surgical instruments.
• Assemble surgical trays.
• Operate sterilization equipment.
• Inspect instruments for defects or damage.
• Maintain accurate records of sterilization processes.
• Collaborate with surgical and nursing staff to ensure instrument availability.
• Adhere to infection control and safety protocols.
• Stay updated on the latest sterilization techniques and guidelines.

Pharmacy Technician vs Sterile Processing Technician: Education and Training

To pursue a career as a pharmacy technician or a sterile processing technician, certain education and training requirements must be met. Here is what you need to know:

Pharmacy Technician Education and Training:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of a pharmacy technician training program, which can range from a few months to a year.
• Some states require pharmacy technicians to be certified. Certification can be obtained through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcare Association (NHA).
• On-the-job training may also be provided by employers.

Sterile Processing Technician Education and Training:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of a sterile processing technician training program, which typically takes around 6 to 12 months.
• Some states may require sterile processing technicians to be certified. Certification can be obtained through organizations such as the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).
• On-the-job training may also be provided by employers.