FAQs for MedCerts’ Online Sterile Processing Technician Certification Training Program
A Sterile Processing Technician is a professional responsible for the decontamination, inspection, packaging, and sterilization of surgical instruments and medical devices. They ensure that all reusable medical supplies used in surgeries and other medical procedures are cleaned and sterilized according to industry standards and regulations.
The career outlook for Sterile Processing Technicians is positive, with an expected job growth of 8% over the next ten years. This growth is driven by the increasing need for healthcare services and the critical role of infection prevention in healthcare settings.
The average salary for a Sterile Processing Technician is $44,940. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the specific healthcare facility.
To start your career journey as a Sterile Processing Technician, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a formal training program such as MedCerts, pass the CRCST exam offered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association, and complete a minimum of 400 hours of hands-on experience in the following areas within 6 months of passing the CRCST exam
- Decontamination (120 hours)
- Quality Assurance Processes (24 hours)
- Preparing and Storing Instruments (120 hours)
- Storage and Distribution (24 hours)
- Sterilization and Disinfection (96 hours)
- Equipment (16 hours)
In the online Sterile Processing Technician certification training program, you will learn:
- Central service workflow processes from cleaning and decontamination to sterilization and storage.
- The importance of following the manufacturer’s instructions for use (IFU), infection control and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Methods for quality control, assurance and the necessity of process documentation.
- Compliance standards and the role of regulating agencies like HIPAA, OSHA, CDC, FDA, ANSI and AAMI.
To enroll in the MedCerts Sterile Processing Technician program, you will need a high school diploma or GED, a web browser with an internet connection and course registration & payment.
The cost of the Sterile Processing Technician training program is $4,000. The cost includes all of your materials and certification exam fees for the CRCST examination.
MedCerts offers various payment plans for the Sterile Processing Technician certification training program, in order to make education accessible for all. These include options for monthly payment plans as low as $346 and several government grant funding options.
While MedCerts does not offer financial aid, students may be eligible for options through government grant-funded programs like:
The online Sterile Processing Technician certification class should be completed in 14 weeks if committing 15-20 hrs of coursework per week.
The Sterile Processing Technician program is structured around expert-led video training, textbooks and competency assessments. It includes interactive simulations and a high level of interactivity to ensure students are well-prepared for their roles. The program is designed to cater to different learning styles, ensuring a thorough understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of surgical technology
Yes, the program includes a strategic exam preparation process and dedicated Student Success Advisors to provide tailored support based on performance.
The MedCerts online Sterile Processing Technician certification training program includes expert-led video training, competency assessments and MedCerts-covered materials including the national certification exam fee. Students also receive support from dedicated Student Success Advisors and Career Services Advisors on behalf of Student Services.
Some MedCerts programs are restricted in certain states or regions. Please review our State Restriction page to view what restrictions there may be in your state/region or residence of employment and ensure you are eligible for enrollment.
We’re not institutionally accredited as a training provider, but the certification you’ll earn in this program is accredited through the exam-issuing authority, the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association. So while our school itself doesn’t hold accreditation, you’ll earn an accredited certification upon passing your national exam.
Upon completion of this program, students wishing to sit for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician exam will be required to complete 400 hours of hands-on experience in the following areas within 6 months of passing the CRCST exam. Certifications are issued once the exam(s) have been passed and clinical requirements are met. Students are responsible for locating and securing a site to fulfill the clinical requirements of the program. MedCerts does not guarantee or provide clinical sites for students, but resources are available for students to use in their search
- Decontamination (120 hours)
- Quality Assurance Processes (120 hours)
- Preparing and Storing Instruments (120 hours)
- Storage and Distribution (24 hours)
- Sterilization and Disinfection (16 hours)
In order to receive the CRCST certification, the HSPA requires students to complete 400 hours of hands on experience in a Central Services department within six months of passing the exam. Click here to view the specific requirements.
