Sterile processing tech, also known as sterile compounding or sterile aseptic, classes are some of the most popular on Dreambound, especially for those looking to level up from their phlebotomy job into something more clinical or advanced. SPT is also popular because the training can be done fully online and is relatively affordable.
Sterile processing tech jobs are a great way to break into healthcare, although the pay isn't amazing. A lot of people want to get their foot in the door of a hospital, and SPT jobs are in demand. After that, one can become a nurse or move up the administrative side of a hospital.
On Dreambound, there are 9 sterile processing technician programs, and the average class length is 4 months.
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A Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, sterilizing, and distributing medical instruments and equipment. They play a vital role in ensuring that healthcare facilities maintain the highest standards of infection control and patient safety.
To become a sterile processing technician, you'll need to complete a high school diploma, enroll in an accredited training program, and gain hands-on experience. To obtain certification, you typically need to pass an exam and meet specific eligibility requirements, such as completing a training program or gaining a certain amount of work experience.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for SPT was $41,480 in May 2022. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $31,570, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $62,960.
It's crucial to recognize that these statistics reflect the typical salary for SPT nationwide. However, the actual salary you might receive could differ based on your individual circumstances.
As an SPT, your primary responsibility is to ensure that all medical equipment and instruments undergo proper cleaning, sterilization, and maintenance to prevent the spread of infections. Your tasks encompass cleaning and decontamination, sterilization, assembly and packaging, inventory management, and quality control. Additionally, you collaborate closely with operating room staff, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the timely delivery of sterile instruments and equipment for surgical procedures and other medical interventions.
Sterile processing technician programs are around 4 to 8 months long. SPT training can be done online, although we highly recommend doing an externship after completing your online training to get hands-on experience. Most SPT programs will match you with a hospital or other clinical site after your training.
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SPTs can find employment in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs), dental offices, outpatient clinics, research facilities, and pharmaceutical companies.
Phlebotomists draw blood from patients directories at laboratories. SPTs are responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and storing medical equipment and generally work at hospitals or direct care sites.
In order to help you find a sterile processing technician class, at Dreambound, we've gathered the most comprehensive list of sterile processing technician classes in the US. Below, you can find a list of sterile processing technician classes, organized by city. If you don't see your city listed, you can always search by zip code.
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Bakersfield
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Baton Rouge
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Colorado Springs
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Dallas/Fort Worth
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Grand Rapids
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Indianapolis
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Kansas City
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Los Angeles
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Louisville/Jefferson County
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Minneapolis
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in New Orleans
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Oklahoma City
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Philadelphia
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Poughkeepsie
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in San Antonio
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in San Bernardino/Riverside
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in San Francisco
Sterile Processing Technician classes near me in Urban Honolulu
We know taking the first step to becoming a sterile processing technician can be scary. That's why we're trying to demystify the process by writing guides on how to become a sterile processing technician. Since State process or requirements may vary, we've written separate guides for each state:
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Connecticut
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in District of Columbia
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Mississippi
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in New Hampshire
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in North Carolina
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in North Dakota
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Pennsylvania
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Rhode Island
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in South Carolina
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in West Virginia
Considering other programs? Read our guides on Sterile Processing Technician versus other similar programs in field, providing a comprehensive overview to assist you in making the right choice for your career path.
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