Online Certificate

Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist

Start a Career as a Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist

4-6 Months*

To Complete

8-10 Hours

Weekly Commitment

Anytime

Enrollment

What is a Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist?

Surgical and Sterile Prep Technicians are members of the surgical and support teams working under the supervision and authority of the surgeon within the scope of practice of state law and hospital policy.

These surgical team members help prepare the operating room by setting up sterile surgical instruments, equipment, supplies, and medications. They check to ensure that all equipment is in the proper place and working properly.

Becoming a Qualified Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist

The 100% online Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist program from Reinhardt University provides an introduction to the surgical technologist career, role in the operating room, and foundational concepts.

This course is a combination of lectures, hands-on labs, and site visits to a local facility.

You will learn

Medical Terminology, Anatomy, and Physiology

Microbiology and Infection Prevention

Transport, Cleaning, and Decontamination

Sterile Storage and Transport

Requirements

Undergraduate degree or a high school diploma
Web browser with internet connection
Course registration & payment

Provided Courseroom Materials

Expert-led video based training
Competency assessments
National Certification exam fees (Surgical Technologist Certification exam)

Is a Career as a Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist Right for You?

Take the Reinhardt University “Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist Certificate Readiness Quiz”

This fun, online quiz takes just 3 minutes to complete and provides you with a personalized report to find out if a short-term online certificate program is right for you. The report identifies your strengths and social style, plus the training and positions you’re best suited for.

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What You’ll Learn in the Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist Program

After completing the Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist program, learners will be able to:

Explain the role of the surgical technician in the operating room and as part of the surgical team
Use proper medical terminology based in human anatomy, physiology, and medical conditions
Explain proper infection control procedures and practices required in patient care and in the sterile surgical environment
Identify the surgical instruments, equipment, supplies, materials, and medications used in general and specialized surgical procedures
Explain the procedures performed in preparing the patient for a surgical procedure, caring for the patient during a surgical procedure, and caring for the patient after the surgical procedure

Sample Lessons

Medical Terminology, Anatomy, and Physiology
Transport, Cleaning, and Decontamination
Sterile Storage and Transport
Monitoring and Record Keeping
Central Services Support and Management

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What Can You Do with a Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist Certificate?

As the healthcare industry continues to grow, and the need for sterile medical equipment in various procedures remains critical, the demand for sterile processing technicians is expected to rise.

Careers to Explore

Sterile processing and surgical technologists work in environments where sterilization of medical instruments is required, including hospitals, outpatient care centers, laboratories and more.

As a graduate you may be eligible for these careers:

Patient Care Technician
Surgical and Sterile Prep Technologist
Clinical Medical Assistant
Personal Care Assistant

High Demand for Surgical and Sterile Prep Technicians

The demand for healthcare professionals, including Patient Care Technicians and Surgical and Sterile Prep Technologists, is expected to grow significantly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033**.

Optional Volunteer Externship Opportunity

Learners who complete this program are eligible to participate in an optional volunteer externship opportunity with a local company/agency/organization whose work aligns with this area of study in order to gain valuable hands-on experience.

Get Certified as a Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist & Stand Out to Employers

Upon successful completion of your sterile processing and surgical technologist courses, you will be prepared to take the leading national/industry-recognized certification exams essential to entry-level employment in this fast-growing field, including:

American Allied Health (AAH)

Surgical Technologist Certification

National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)

Tech in Surgery TS-C (NCCT) Certification

Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA)

Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST)

You will receive a complimentary voucher for each of these certification exams.

How Much Does a Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist Certificate Cost?

$4,000

Total Tuition

Connect with an admissions counselor to explore payment plans available to you.
Payment Plan Details: Enrollment requires a minimum deposit of $500. Installment payments will begin 30 days after the course start date.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A Sterile Processing Technician cleans, sterilizes, and prepares surgical instruments and equipment for use in hospitals and surgery centers.

To get certified, complete a Sterile Processing Technician program. Then, gain hands-on experience. Finally, I need to pass exams like the CRCST or CBSPD certification.

Top programs include Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST), Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT), and certifications from CBSPD and IAHCSMM.

Courses typically cover decontamination, sterilization, infection control, surgical instruments, equipment assembly, and quality assurance.

Essential skills include attention to detail, knowledge of sterilization techniques, infection control, organization, and the ability to work in fast-paced healthcare environments.

Most programs take 6 months to 1 year, depending on the format and whether the training is full-time or part-time, and they typically include clinical practice.

Sterile Processing Technicians can work in hospitals, surgical centers, and outpatient facilities, with potential to advance to supervisory or management roles.

Most programs require a high school diploma or GED, and some may recommend or require previous healthcare experience or knowledge of medical terminology.

Accreditation & Licensed Certifying Bodies

Our certificate programs are accredited by reputable institutions recognized in the industry. We partner with accredited organizations to ensure the quality and validity of our certifications.

Is a Rewarding Career as a Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist Right for You? Get More Info…

At Reinhardt University, we’re committed to helping you achieve real work for the good life. Gain the skills to make a positive impact while advancing your career. Get the details and see how Reinhardt University can support your journey forward.

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