Sterile processing was a very stressful job , and thankless. ... Its a very fast paced job and will always be fast. The OR will call down for certain trays that will need to be turned over for either the same day or the following days.
How hard is it to be a sterile processing technician?
While earning a college degree or professional certificate is not always a requirement to find work as a sterile processing technician, it’s difficult to step into a job with no experience or foundation of knowledge in medical terminology, medical instruments or sterilization processes.
Is sterile processing a good career?
Many sterile processing technicians enjoy their jobs. The time it takes to become a sterile processing technician is relatively short for a career in health care. You can make a good salary , often with excellent benefits without going into much educational debt.
How many hours do sterile processing technicians work?
Hours: Full-time workers spend around 41 hours per week at work (compared to the average of 44 hours). Age: The average age is 50 years (compared to the average of 40 years).
Is the sterile processing exam hard?
According to IAHCSMM, out of 8,289 CRCST exams taken in 2019, 77% passed the test. The exam is not a walk in the park! You’ll need to be well-prepared both academically and professionally to pass the exam and become certified.
How many times can you take the sterile processing exam?
Candidates can register to take the exam anytime during the window subject to availability at the test site selected. Any candidate in the U.S. may sign up for more than one different exam during the current one-week exam window. The candidate may NOT sign up for the same exam more than once during any exam window.
How do I study for the sterile processing exam?
- An online course from Purdue University.
- Self study with the books offered from the IAHCSMM online store.
- Your own work experience. A course is not required — you may already have the knowledge from your job.
Is sterile processing a dead end job?
This is a dead end job . ... The jobs skill that you gain while being a sterile processing technician don’t apply to much else, unless you are a certified surgical technician or have another degree, in which case don’t waste you’re time unless you’re using this job to get your foot in the door.
Is Sterile Processing Tech in demand?
Being an experienced sterile processing technician you are in high demand and will get jobs in any medical community, such as outpatient centres dental clinics, hospitals and physicians’ offices.
How much does Sterile Processing school cost?
| Tuition & Fees $7,737 | Length of Program 411 Contact Hours | Completion Time 7.33 Months |
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How much do sterile processing techs make?
While ZipRecruiter is seeing salaries as high as $70,000 and as low as $26,000, the majority of Sterile Processing Technician salaries currently range between $38,000 (25th percentile) to $56,000 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $65,500 annually in Alberta.
Do sterile processing techs wear scrubs?
All personnel entering the decontamination, preparation, sterilization, and sterile storage areas should wear clean uniforms that are provided by and donned at the facility . Attire should be changed daily or more often as needed (i.e., when wet, grossly soiled, or visibly contaminated with blood or body fluids).
Can you become a sterile processing tech online?
Depending on your schedule and pace, you can complete our online sterile processing program in as little as a few months . From there, you’ll register and sit for your certification exam.
What should a sterile processing technician know?
- Cleaning and sterilizing medical instruments and lab equipment.
- Inspecting equipment for damage and ensuring proper function.
- Keeping accurate records of sterilization and supply inventory.
- Packaging freshly sterilized instruments for use in surgery or other medical procedures.
What do sterile processing techs wear?
Sterile processing technicians must also protect themselves to prevent contamination or exposure to blood and bodily fluids on each instrument. Most technicians wear gowns, masks, face shields, shoe covers, and two pairs of gloves to protect from fluids and harsh cleaning agents.
What do sterile processing techs do?
Central service technicians, also called sterile processing technicians or central service (CS) professionals, play a critical role in preventing infection by sterilizing, cleaning, processing, assembling, storing, and distributing medical supplies .
