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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?

Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologists play a crucial role in the healthcare industry, particularly in surgical settings. They often work under the guidance of surgeons and other hospital staff to ensure compliance with state regulations and hospital protocols.

Professionals in this field are responsible for preparing rooms for procedures. This includes ensuring that sterile instruments, supplies, medications, and equipment are ready. They also must verify the proper placement and functionality of the equipment.

Becoming a Qualified Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist

Would you like to play a vital role in the healthcare industry? The 100% online Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist certificate from Arcadia University equips you with skills in both sterile processing and surgical technology.

You'll gain knowledge on how to sterilize surgical instruments effectively and prepare them for usage, as well as assist in surgical procedures. This combination of skills will make you an invaluable member of any surgical team.

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 Arcadia 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 is right for you. The report identifies your strengths and social style, plus the training and positions you’re best suited for.

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

After completing the Sterile Processing and Surgical Technologist certificate, 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 Courses

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

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

With an ever-growing healthcare sector and an increasing number of surgical procedures being performed, the need for professionals who can ensure the sterility of surgical instruments and assist in operations is significant.

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 certificate 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 representative 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

To become a Sterile Processing Technician, you need to complete a training program that covers sterilization techniques, infection control, and the proper handling of surgical instruments. After completing your training, you can obtain certification to demonstrate your skills and knowledge in the field.

The Sterile Processing Technician program at Arcadia University includes coursework on sterilization methods, medical equipment handling, infection control practices, and surgical instrument maintenance. The certificate is designed to prepare students for hands-on work in healthcare settings.

A Sterile Processing Technician certificate program provides specialized training for individuals seeking to work in the sterilization and processing of medical equipment. The certificate typically covers sterilization procedures, infection prevention, and proper equipment handling, preparing students for certification exams.

To become a successful Sterile Processing Technician, you should have attention to detail, knowledge of infection control practices, the ability to operate sterilization equipment, and an understanding of medical terminology and surgical instruments.

Sterile Processing Technicians work in hospitals, surgical centers, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, ensuring that medical equipment and instruments are properly cleaned, sterilized, and prepared for use in surgeries and medical procedures.

Accreditation & Licensed Certifying Bodies

Our certificates are accredited by reputable institutions recognized in the industry. We partner with accredited organizations to ensure the quality and validity of our certifications.
National Workforce Career Association Logo
National Healthcareer Association
National Healthcareer Association

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

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* Certificate length when completed in normal time.
** https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/surgical-technologists.htm#tab-6
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