Although it may seem like a behind-the-scenes role, sterile processing is essential to patient safety and hospital efficiency. It offers stability, portability and growth potential, making it ideal for military spouses. In addition, your role as a sterile processing technician is structured, which aligns with the adaptability and discipline you possess as a military spouse. Below is extensive insight into this role and how you can leverage MyCAA to pursue the program at MedCerts. 

Job Responsibilities and Work Environment

As a Sterile Processing Technician, you are responsible for surgical equipment in the following ways:

• Receiving
• Documenting
• Cleaning and sterilizing 
• Assembling 
• Storing
• Issuing

This position is vital in preventing infections and ensuring healthcare professionals have safe, functional equipment. Daily tasks encompass: 

• Decontaminating instruments 
• Operating autoclaves (sterilization machines)
• Inspecting tools for damage
• Properly storing sterile supplies
• Packaging surgical sets

Education and Certification Requirements

Becoming a sterile processing technician does not require a college degree. This makes it an accessible career path for you as a military spouse seeking a quick, job-ready certification. 

The operating room has a high-performance standard, leaving little tolerance for inattention to detail. With adequate SPT training attainable at MedCerts, you can build your skill set and meticulousness in aseptic techniques. During our 14-week program, you get to cover the following courses: 

• 2-week Professionalism in Allied Health
• 6-week Introduction to Human Anatomy and Medical Terminology
• 6-week Sterile Processing

By the end of it, you get to sit for the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) issued Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam. To acquire full certification, you must complete 400 hours of hands-on experience in a CS (Central Services) department.

Career Outlook and Salary Potential

The demand for sterile processing technicians is strong, with a 24.5% job growth potential over the next 10 years. Three main positions will be available, each with varying earnings potential. They include 

• Central Service Technician $26,000 to $45,000
• Central Sterile Supply Technician $26,000 to $45,000
• Sterile Processing Technician $26,000 to $45,000

Leverage MyCAA and Enroll in the MedCerts SPT Program

Are you ready to take the next step toward a steady job with competitive salaries that are ideal for your military lifestyle? Explore the MedCerts SPT program and start your journey today. As a Military spouse, you are eligible to receive funding from the Department of Defense through My Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) if your active duty spouse is in the following paygrades:

• E-1 TO E-9
• O-1 TO O-3
• W-1 to W-3

This workforce development program offers about $4,000 in tuition funding with a yearly fiscal limit of about $2,000. This amount covers half of the program cost which includes the expenses of obtaining a license and certification. Our course counselors can help you set up a MyCAA account and help you meet every requirement of the application process to get started on your SPT program asap.