Sterile Processing Technician Schools In Colorado – Find Programs
Sterile processing technicians are responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing medical equipment and instruments. The instruments are used in surgical procedures and other medical treatments.
This makes them invaluable within the healthcare field. It also creates a high demand for qualified technicians. Additionally, this creates strong competition for sterile processing technician jobs.
If you want to pursue a career as a sterile processor in Colorado, you need to find a program that provides comprehensive training.
In this guide, we will provide you with information on accredited schools in Colorado. We will also discuss the career prospects and job opportunities available to sterile processing technician grads.
Certification And Licensing Requirements
In Colorado, sterile processing technicians are not required to hold a certification or license to practice. However, many employers may prefer to hire technicians who have earned national certification.
To obtain these certifications, candidates typically need to complete a formal sterile processing technician program. They will also need to pass a certification exam. These programs are offered by colleges, vocational schools, or healthcare organizations such as the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).
They include classroom instruction and hands-on experience in a sterile processing setting.
The certification exams assess students’ knowledge of sterile processing practices, proper decontamination procedures, infection control, and sterilization process techniques. After acquiring their certificate, graduates can search for sterile processing technician jobs.
Training Options And Education Programs In Colorado
There are several schools in Colorado that offer training for sterile processing technicians. On average, training spans one to two semesters. It typically involves practical and theoretical education for sterile processing technician majors.
Aims Community College
- Program: Certificate – Sterile Instrument Processing
- Accreditation: Aims Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Learn more: ACC Sterile Instrument Processing Certificate
Front Range Community College
- Program: Certificate – Sterile Processing Technology
- Accreditation: Front Range Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Learn more: Front Range College’s Sterile Processing Technology Program
Pima Medical Institute (Denver)
- Program: Certificate – Sterile Processing Technician
- Accreditation: Pima Medical Institute (Denver) is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
- Learn more: Pima Medical Institute’s Sterile Processing Technician Certificate Program
Salary Expectations For Sterile Processing Technicians
Sterile processing technicians play a critical role in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of medical equipment. This is also true for surgical instruments used in healthcare facilities. The salaries offered tend to reflect the importance of this work.
As a junior technician, you can expect to earn a starting salary of between $25,000 – $28,000 a year. This figure can increase significantly with experience and additional on-the-job training. It may also depend on the type of facility you work in.
For example, those working in a sterile processing department in a private practice or outpatient care center may earn a higher salary. Conversely, those working in smaller clinics or doctor’s offices may earn a lower salary.
According to industry data, the average salary for sterile processing technician careers is around $43,000 a year. However, salaries for senior processing technicians in certain facilities may earn more than $60,000 a year.
The future job market for sterile processing technicians
Sterile processing technicians should be aware of the employment trends within their industry. This knowledge can ensure long-term job security.
Medical equipment preparers, which includes sterile technicians, are projected to see an 8.3% increase in job growth by the end of 2030. This will create around 4,900 new positions.
Having prior experience and training can give individuals an advantage in securing job openings. Some employers may need employees to undertake training for these positions. Still, they generally prefer to hire individuals with expertise to save on training costs.
Where to find work as a sterile processing technician in Colorado
Sterile processing technician grads can usually find work within healthcare facilities. These facilities may include doctor’s offices, dental practices, operating rooms, private practices, and clinics. However, those working in outpatient facilities may have more opportunities to earn a higher salary.
Still, the need for qualified technicians may extend beyond these facilities. Technicians may find work in any field that requires the use of medical equipment preparers. This means that students that choose to pursue a career in this field have a high demand for their services. They can also find employment opportunities in a wide range of industries.
By considering the diverse range of settings where you may be employed, you can make an informed decision about your career path. You can also find exciting and rewarding job opportunities outside of healthcare settings. This means you can choose to work in an environment that suits you.
References
https://sterileprocessingtech.org/co/