Are you considering a career as a Sterile Processing Technician? The good news is that you don’t need a college degree or spend years in school to start this rewarding career. In fact, you can earn your Sterile Processing Technician certification in as little as four months! Sounds too good to be true? Stick around because we’ll cover the exact steps you need to follow to become a certified Sterile Processing Tech without the burden of student debt or years of schooling.
In this guide, we will cover:
- How to get the right training without spending a fortune.
- The fastest path to earning your certification in less than six months.
- How to stand out from the competition, even as an entry-level tech.
- The most in-demand certification for sterile processing techs.
- How to gain real-life clinical experience before you even start working.
Let’s dive in!
What Is a Sterile Processing Technician?
Sterile Processing Technicians play a vital role in hospitals and healthcare settings by ensuring that surgical instruments and medical equipment are properly sterilized and safe for patient use. Although this position doesn’t involve direct patient care, it’s essential for preventing infections and ensuring smooth medical operations.
The best part? You don’t need a four-year degree to start this career. All you need is certification, experience, and the right training.
The Key to Success: Certification
The number one thing that will help you succeed in this career is certification. Employers are looking for sterile processing techs who hold the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification issued by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA). This is the most respected and widely accepted certification in the U.S. for sterile processing professionals.
Why is Certification So Important?
- Credential Recognition: A CRCST certification demonstrates to employers that you meet industry standards, making you a more attractive candidate.
- Compliance: Many hospitals and healthcare facilities require certification for legal and regulatory reasons. Having it can put you ahead of non-certified candidates.
- Higher Earning Potential: Certified professionals typically earn more than their non-certified counterparts, giving you a significant advantage in the job market.
In short, getting certified is crucial if you want to stand out as a top candidate for entry-level positions.
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The Training Dilemma
Once you know that certification is a must, the next step is getting the right training. However, not all training programs are created equal. Many adults make the mistake of choosing costly, lengthy, and unaccredited programs that don’t prepare them adequately for the job or certification exams.
Traditional Programs: Are They Worth It?
Most aspiring sterile processing techs consider enrolling in traditional programs like associate degree courses at a university or certification programs at community colleges. But there are several problems with these traditional options:
- High Costs: A degree program can cost upwards of $30,000, while a certification program could range from $7,000 to $15,000. This doesn’t include hidden expenses like transportation, books, and additional training materials.
- Long Duration: Degree programs can take up to two years, and certification programs typically take at least one year to complete. That’s a long time to put your life on hold, especially for a job that you could start in just a few months.
- Unnecessary Electives: Many of these programs include elective courses that have nothing to do with sterile processing, leading to wasted time and effort.
- Fixed Schedules: These programs often require you to attend classes on a fixed schedule, which can be challenging if you have work, family, or other commitments. Missing a class could set you back, and in some cases, you may have to wait an entire year to retake a course.
- Hidden Costs: Beyond tuition, there are additional expenses like gas, parking permits, and training materials. These can quickly add up, making traditional programs even more expensive.
Is On-the-Job Training an Option?
Some people wonder if they can skip formal training altogether and learn on the job. While gaining real-life experience is essential, hospitals and clinics are often reluctant to hire untrained, uncertified candidates. Employers typically prefer someone who has undergone formal training and is certified by a recognized institution like the HSPA.
The Ideal Training Program for Sterile Processing Techs
So, what’s the solution? The ideal training program for Sterile Processing Technicians should be:
- Online and Self-Paced: Flexibility is key. You should be able to complete your training at your own pace and from anywhere—whether it’s your home, a coffee shop, or a library.
- Fast: You shouldn’t have to spend years in school. A well-structured program should take no more than four to six months.
- Affordable: You want to start your career without being burdened by student debt. Look for programs that offer high-quality training at an affordable price.
- Accredited: Employers are more likely to hire you if your training comes from an accredited institution. A certificate from a well-known university can significantly boost your resume.
- Preparation for Certification: The program should prepare you to sit for the CRCST certification exam, which is the gold standard for sterile processing professionals.
- Hands-On Experience: Although an online program is great for flexibility, it’s also important to gain hands-on experience through an externship or clinical placement.
Introducing Preppy’s Sterile Processing Technician Program!
The good news is that there’s a program that checks all of these boxes: Preppy’s Online Sterile Processing Technician Certification Program. This program is designed to help you become job-ready in just a few months—without the hefty price tag of traditional programs.
What Preppy Offers
- 100% Online and Self-Paced: You can complete the course on your schedule, making it ideal for busy adults. No more driving to campus or worrying about missing classes.
- Fast Completion Time: You can finish the program in as little as four months! That means you’ll be ready to start your career faster than most traditional programs would allow.
- Accredited University Certification: Preppy partners with Auburn, a reputable, accredited university to offer a certificate of completion in Sterile Processing. Having this certificate on your resume can help you stand out in the job market.
- CRCST Exam Preparation: The program is designed to prepare you for the CRCST exam. Upon completing your training, you’ll have the skills and knowledge you need to pass the exam and earn your certification.
- Externship Opportunity: Preppy also includes an externship as part of the program. This gives you the hands-on experience you need to succeed in the real world, making you more competitive for job openings.
- Affordable Pricing: The entire program costs just $1,599, which is a fraction of the cost of traditional training programs. Payment plans are also available, making it even more accessible.
What You’ll Learn
Preppy’s program covers all the essential topics you need to know as a sterile processing tech, including:
- Medical terminology and anatomy
- Sterilization procedures for surgical instruments
- Decontamination and cleaning processes
- Health and safety regulations
- Infection prevention and control
This comprehensive curriculum ensures that you’ll be well-prepared for your certification exam and future job responsibilities.
How to Get Started
If you’re ready to start your career as a Sterile Processing Technician, now is the time to act. Preppy offers a fast, affordable, and flexible online sterile processing technician training program that will prepare you for the CRCST certification and set you up for success in the healthcare field.
Take the first step towards a brighter future—get certified as a Sterile Processing Technician and kickstart your career in healthcare!
Also read: What is a Sterile Processing Technician (SPT)?
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, who’s work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
Time is money. Instead of programs that could take 2 years, Preppy provides you education in a few months through immersive online training.
Healthcare, IT, Business, Trades…Preppy gets you ready for the trending careers in our modern economy.
Our team of higher education and startup veterans have created the best solution so everyone can obtain the emerging careers of today and tomorrow.
We look forward to speaking with you. You may also call 800-729-1317.
