General

+ What is Sterile Processing?

The Sterile Processing Department also known as Central Supply, or Sterile Supply, or the heart of the hospital is comprised of the services in the hospital where medical/surgical supplies and equipment are cleaned, sterilized, prepared, processed, stored, and issued for patient care.

+ What does a Sterile Processing Technician do?

The Sterile Processing Technician is responsible for cleaning, decontaminating, inspecting, assembling, packaging and sterilizing reusable surgical instruments and trays according to established procedures.

They are also responsible for storing, handling, inventory control and the distribution of sterile and non-sterile medical products. They maintain records, supplies, and other information for instruments and sterilization methods.

+ How do I register for the Sterile Processing Technician Course?

It's easy to register for the CS / SPD Course. There are only 3 simple steps:

1. Complete the enrollment form found on the website.
2. We will send additional information, an application form and an invoice for payment.
3. Send back the completed application and payment. Note: It is recommended that you call the number on the form to notify us when you send payment. Seating is limited and is on a first come, first serve basis.**

+ What is the duration of the Sterile Processing Technician Course?

The Sterile Processing Course is held over 12 weeks. Classes will be held for 8 weeks, followed with an externship held for 4 weeks.

+ When are classes offered?

Classes are offered virtually on the following days:

• Monday & Tuesday 9am - 12pm OR
• Tuesday & Thursday 5pm - 8pm OR
• Saturday 9am - 3pm

Covid-19 Response

+ Is Steri-Central open?

Yes, we are! We have transitioned to remote(online) classes to protect the wellbeing of our students, faculty, and staff. You can now complete your admissions process without having to travel to the campus. Call (312)767-7212 or email [info@stericentral.com][0]].

+ Is Steri-Central accepting new students right now?

Yes, we are! We are accepting applications for our Fall and Winter terms. Apply today online at [http://stericentral.com/apply][1]!

Admission Requirements

+ What are the Admission Requirements for the Sterile Processing Technician Course?

You must be at least 18 years of age. You must have a High School Diploma or a GED certificate.You must pass a criminal background check. You must secure insurance requirements. You must meet vaccinations requirements Note: There are additional requirements for the Externship

+ How much does the Sterile Processing Technician Course cost?

The total cost of the SPD Course is $2,650.00 This includes the following:

1. Tuition
2. Textbook
3. Certification Exam Review
4. Tour of Sterile Processing Department
5. Hands-on Lab
6. Resume Review
7. Externship

Note:

• There is a $25 non-refundable registration fee which goes towards tuition.
• Tuition is 100% refundable before the 1st class is held.
• Payment plans are available.

+ Is there a required textbook?

Yes. The cost for the required textbook is included in the registration fee. The instructor will provide students with the book that is required for the class on the first day. Students must also have:

• Puncture resistant closed toe shoes (as required by instructor during classes and the clinical lab).

+ Is the tuition fee refundable?

Yes, 100% refundable before the 1st class meets.

+ Is there a minimal passing grade to successfully complete the Sterile Processing Technician Training Program?

Yes, students must attain a passing grade of 70% or higher to successfully complete the Steri-Central's Sterile Processing Technician Training Program.

+ Are students required to attend clinicals?

Yes, students will attend a 4 week externship (clinical) through an affiliate hospital. Students must complete Steri-Central's Sterile Processing Technician Training Course and attain a passing grade of 70% or higher to attend the externship.

+ How long are classes held for?

10 weeks

+ How long is the Externship?

4 weeks

+ What do I need for the Externship?

Scrubs will be provided by the healthcare facility. You will need to obtain Student Liability Insurance which is approximately $45. More information will be provided during class.

+ Does my tuition include my certification exam fee?

No, tuition does not include the certification exam fee.

Career Growth

+ What is the projected career growth rate for Central Service / Sterile Processing & Distribution Technicians?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Outlook, it is projected that the demand for Central Service / Sterile Processing & Distribution Technicians will experience a growth rate of 18% from 2016 through 2026.

+ How much can I make working as a Central Service / Sterile Processing Technician?

Multiple factors determine the amount a CS / SPD Technician can earn. These include: regional location, the size of the healthcare facility, experience and wether or not you are certified.

+ Where do Central Service / Sterile Processing Technicians (CS / SPD Technicians) work?

CS / SPD Technicians can work in Medical Centers, Hospitals, Outpatient Care Centers, Clinics, Surgical Centers, Specialty Hospitals, Physician's Offices as well as Dental Offices.

Obtaining Certification

+ Does completing the Sterile Processing Technician Training Program mean I will be a certified Central Service Technician?

No, we provide you a certificate of completion which enables you to apply for the Certification exam.

+ Is the Certification nationwide?

Yes. Certification earned through either the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or International Association Of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM) are recognized throughout the entire United States and is also recognized internationally.

+ Do I have to be Certified to work in the Central Service / Sterile Processing Department?

Currently, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Tennessee are the only states that require certification of Sterile Processing Technicians, however many hospitals do require certification to be eligible for hire. In general, certified Sterile Processing Technicians are paid more.