Sterile Processing Technician

Degree Type: Certificate

The primary role of the Sterile Processing Technicians is to sterilize, clean, wrap, store and distribute supplies, instruments, and equipment used in patient care.

Sterile processing technicians operate autoclaves and other equipment used for disinfection and sterilization process. The majority of the prepared materiel are prepared for use in surgery, labor and delivery, emergency rooms and other specialty areas. The work of sterile processing technician is crucial in ensuring that patients avoid infections, and that hospital departments are able to access the instrumentation and equipment they need immediately, and that adequate inventory of is maintained. Travel Technician jobs are available. Employment in various settings, including hospitals, dental or eye care practices, plastic surgery offices, surgery centers and laboratories.

The Sterile Processing Technician Program of Southern University at Shreveport offers a Certificate of Technical Studies (CTS) which prepares students for careers in sterile processing as well as Materials Management and Distribution in health care industries. Dedicated to excellence in sterile processing and distribution education, the program promotes an environment which fosters the development of a sterile conscience required to safely care for surgical patients, critical thinking, cooperation, teamwork and professionalism; along with technical skills necessary to provide vital support to all patient care areas served by the Central Sterile Processing Management and Distribution Department.

National certification is voluntary. However, the program prepares and encourages students to Apply for the national certification exam offered by the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM), and become Certified Registered Central Service Technicians (CRCST). The Application process requires 400 Hours of hands-on practice which are partially full-filled during clinical rotations, or six months of employment in the field. Students are given the opportunity to work towards completion of those required hours. Students who may not have completed the 400 hours at graduation time will have the opportunity to apply for internship, provided they have not already secured employment in the field. Students may also apply for provisional CRCST certification graduation and completion of the required hours in the field.

 Please see your advisor or University Catalog for more information.