Application and Appointment Information:

 2024 Application Period

August 2024 - May 2025

2024 Admission Information  . 2024 Program Application

To apply please submit the Sterile Processing Technician Application, along with unofficial transcripts from all colleges or universities you have attended to Kristie Cole, kcole@southplainscollege.edu. If you would like to set an appointment to speak to Mrs. Cole, please follow this link:  https://calendly.com/kcole-5/srgt-appt 

PROFESSION OVERVIEW

A sterile processing technician plays a critical role in preventing infection by sterilizing, cleaning, processing, assembling, storing, and distributing medical supplies. A sterile processing technician learns the principle of sterilization and sterile processing. They work behind the scenes in a constantly changing, fast-paced environment. Though they play a vital role in preventing infection, technicians have minimal direct patient contact. A sterile processing technician is an excellent opportunity to join the growing healthcare field.

A Sterile Processing Technician must have the ability to perform under pressure and in stressful situations—a high degree of concentration, a strong sense of responsibility and ethics, focus, and detail-oriented.  One must also be prepared to comply with all hospital policies and adhere to strict sterilization procedures. At the root of the job is an understanding of microbiology, infection, and disease control. 

Sterile Processing Technicians typically work outside the operating room but in support of hospital operations. They serve an integral, supporting role in patient care and safety. Since this role does not interact directly with patients, it is best suited for someone who likes to work behind the scenes. Sterile Processing Technicians are employed within hospitals, physician’s offices, inpatient and outpatient clinics, and diagnostic centers.

THE PROGRAM

The Sterile Processing Technician Program is designed to provide the student with the knowledge and skills required to work as a sterile processing technician.  The program will prepare students to clean, disinfect, and distribute sterilized instrumentation and equipment to various areas of the healthcare facility.  The clinical setting will allow the student to work in a sterile processing department and central service department setting to gain real-world experience.  Upon completion of the Sterile Processing Technician program, the student will be qualified and required to sit for the HealthCare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) national exam.  The Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) is accredited by both the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

The Certificate in Sterile Processing Technician is a two (2) semester program. Classes are scheduled in a Hybrid format. A hybrid format means students will complete coursework online and attend an in-person laboratory on Monday and Tuesday nights. Enrollment is limited and competitive. Admission to South Plains College does not guarantee acceptance to the Sterile Processing Technician Program.

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

The Sterile Processing Technician Program is designed to provide the student with the knowledge and skills required to work as a sterile processing technician.  The program will prepare students to clean, disinfect, and distribute sterilized instrumentation and equipment to various areas of the healthcare facility.  The clinical setting will allow the student to work in a sterile processing department and central service department setting to gain real-world experience.  Upon completion of the Sterile Processing Technician program, the student will be qualified and required to sit for the HealthCare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) national exam.  The Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) is accredited by both the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

The Certificate in Sterile Processing Technician is a two (2) semester program. Classes are scheduled in a Hybrid format. A hybrid format means students will complete coursework online and attend an in-person laboratory on Monday and Tuesday nights. Enrollment is limited and competitive. Admission to South Plains College does not guarantee acceptance to the Sterile Processing Technician Program.