What is a Sterile Processing Tech?

What is a Sterile Processing Tech?

Rate this post

Have you thought about becoming a sterile processing tech? Or maybe you haven’t heard of this position! Sterile processing technicians are integral to patient safety during surgery and successful medical practices. They are responsible for sterilizing surgical equipment and helping surgeons deliver the best outcome. We have detailed the job of a sterile processing tech below to give you all of the information you need!

sterile processing tech

sterile processing tech

Job Description:

Sterile processing techs are primarily responsible for sterilizing equipment used for surgery. They are also known as surgical technologists. These techs sterilize equipment, gloves, needles, and any other devices used for surgery. They are also responsible for arranging the equipment in the operating room. Sterile processing techs are in charge of the adjustment and assembly of all medical tools before surgery begins. Techs also make sure that all devices are operating correctly before surgery. A large part of their job is to catalog the entire sterilization process before distribution They catalog the sterilization so other medical professionals know which tools are sterile and which are not. Sterile processing techs rarely work in the operating room at the same time as a surgeon. They usually work behind the scenes. Their jobs are very important, as they ensure patient safety and infection control.

Education:

Sterile processing techs need at least a high school diploma or GED before entering into a community college or technical school program. These programs tend to last anywhere from a few months to 2 years. However, most programs usually last under a year. In order to apply to a sterile processing tech program, you need to take an entrance exam. While receiving your degree, you will take classes in infection control, microbiology, and disease control, to name a few. You will then go on to get your certification in sterile processing. Certification is not required in all states, but it is required by New Jersey, Tennessee, Connecticut, and New York. If you are certified in a state not listed, you will have a more competitive job application. Successful sterile processing techs are usually certified.

Necessary Skills:

People who are considering a career as a sterile processing tech need to possess certain skills. These skills can include attention to detail, technical knowledge, ability to adapt, and also great communication skills. Attention to detail is very important. A tech must be thorough in their cleaning and sterilization process in order to best protect the patient. Technical knowledge is essential in understanding each surgical instrument and its use. Sterile processing techs need to be up-to-date about changes in the surgical field and new instruments. These techs need to have great communication skills in order to convey the sterilization process. They log the sterilization and must let surgeons know if there are any problems with devices or something is not as it should be. This is important for keeping the patient safe.

Job Outlook:

The sterile processing tech field is quickly growing. The demand for sterile processing techs is projected to grow by about 10% in the next ten years. There is also room for career advancement in the sterile processing field. You can advance from sterile processing tech to sterile processing supervisor or even a surgical tech. Sterile processing techs make anywhere between $25,000 and $40,000 a year, or $19 an hour. In order to secure a travel position, you need to have worked at least a year in the field.

Now you know how important sterile processing techs are! You can browse our job postings for travel sterile processing technicians and find your perfect assignment today.

Author: Allied Travel Careers

Share This Post On

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *