Sterile Processing Technician Schools In Iowa – Find Programs

Sterile processing technicians carry out an essential role in many healthcare professions. They are tasked with ensuring the equipment used is clean and sterile.

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They are also responsible for stocktaking and ordering equipment. Because of this, an eye for detail is essential. Record-keeping skills must be of high quality as well.

Sterile processing job roles can be based in:

  • Dental practices
  • Doctors’ offices
  • Clinics
  • Hospitals
  • Labs

Sterile Processing Technician Responsibilities

The primary responsibility of sterile processing technicians is to ensure equipment and medical instruments are sterilized. Tools and surgical instruments must be ready for use in medical procedures.

The role of the sterile processing technician does not end there. The following responsibilities are all part of the role:

Sterilizing medical equipment

The sterilization process for equipment and instruments is essential. A range of sterilization techniques will be adopted to do this safely and efficiently.

Quality control checks

Quality control ensures all equipment and instruments are free from potentially harmful bacteria and microorganisms.

Visual inspections and testing are required to do this correctly.

Maintaining sterilization processes

Ensuring tools and equipment remains sterilized is essential. You will follow strict protocols to ensure there are no potential faults in this process.

Inventory management

Inventory management covers everything from updating records accurately to reordering supplies. This is an essential part of the job as it ensures supplies do not run low.

Adhering to safety protocols

Sterile processing technicians must follow all safety protocols closely. This includes wearing the appropriate PPE. The disposal of medical waste will also have specific protocols that must be followed.

Communication

Sterile processing technicians work with all levels of medical staff. They must maintain a professional working relationship.

They must be able to communicate effectively to ensure processes are as safe and efficient as possible.

Salary & Employment Projections For Sterile Processing Technician Careers In Iowa

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the average wage for sterile processing technicians in Iowa was $36,300. This is slightly lower than the national average. However, the cost of living in Iowa is also below the national average helping to even things out.

Job growth projections in Iowa for sterile processing technicians are also slightly lower than the national average. However, the projected growth of just below 7% is still great news for those interested in a sterile processing technician career.

Iowa Licensing Requirements For Sterile Processing Technicians

There are no specific requirements in Iowa for sterile processing technicians. It will be down to the employer whether they provide the necessary training or if they require some form of accreditation.

Prior experience and education will make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

Sterile Processing Technician Accreditation

Employers may have a preference for specific accreditation for certain roles. Exploring the preferred accreditation of certain institutes should be beneficial. It will help those interested in sterile processing technician jobs.

The completion of a certification exam after carrying out a course is possible.

School Programs For Sterile Processing Technician Training In Iowa

There are three great sterile processing technician schools in Iowa. The courses prepare students for their certification exams.

Sterile processing technician grads will have a significantly better chance of securing a position than those without any accreditation.

Kirkwood Community College

The sterile processing department of the University of Iowa is located at the Kirkwood Regional Center in Coralville.

It provides students with 100 hours of courses over a 10-week period. The non-credit courses prepare students for the final certification exam.

Students will also benefit from work experience that is carried out at a local hospital.

Iowa Western Community College

The Western Community College of Iowa is found in Council Bluffs and costs just $775.

Students are taught the basics required to pass the final exam. Work experience is also included.

Des Moines Area Community College

The sterile processing course at DMACC is made up of a program that focuses on career readiness. This part of the course lasts for 24 hours. The remaining 60 hours include clinical experience.

FAQs

Can you study online with the sterile processing technician schools in Iowa?

The three schools listed require the student to carry out on-campus learning. The work experience included will also be carried out locally.

Penn Foster College offers an excellent online course for Sterile Processing Technician Certification.

The diploma prepares students for the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association exam.

What is a central service technician?

Central service technicians are the same as sterile processing technicians. It’s just a different name that is sometimes used.

Is a sterile processing technician an important part of infection control?

The role of a sterile processing technician is essential to infection control. The sterilization of medical tools and instruments is required to minimize the risk of infection.

Sources

https://sterileprocessingtech.org/in/

https://www.herzing.edu/become/sterile-processing-technician

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-does-a-sterile-processing-technician-do

https://resources.workable.com/sterile-processing-technician-job-description