Sterile Processing Technician Schools In Illinois – Find Programs
Sterile processing technicians are the unsung heroes of the healthcare sector. They may not deal with patients directly, but their work does ensure patient safety within a healthcare facility. This is because sterile processing technicians are responsible for cleaning, distributing, packaging, storing, and sterilizing medical equipment for surgical procedures.
There is currently a very high demand for sterile processing technicians in the US, making it relatively easy to secure a job in the industry. Interestingly, you also don’t need a university degree to work as a sterile processing technician in the US, so it is definitely a prospect to consider if you don’t have a tertiary education.
In this piece, we will tell you everything you need to do to become a sterile processing technician in the state of Illinois. We’ll cover topics like the best training programs, how to become certified, as well as how much sterile processing technicians earn.
Licensing Requirements In Illinois
Like most other states in the US, there are no licensing requirements for sterile processing techs in Illinois. The only thing you need to work as a sterile processing technician in Illinois is a high school diploma or a GED.
It would be a good idea to become certified, though, as employers much prefer candidates with certification.
How To Get Sterile Processing Technician Certification In Illinois
If you want to become certified and improve your employment chances, you have two options.
You can take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam through the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), and become a CRCST.
Otherwise, you can go through the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD), which will require you to take and pass the Sterile Processing Department Technician Certification (SPDTC) exam. If you pass the exam, you will then become a Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT).
Best Sterile Processing Technician Education Programs In Illinois
While you do not need to go through a sterile processing technician program to land a job, it will certainly help your chances.
Below we will list two of the best sterile processing technician training programs based in Illinois.
The College of DuPage
The College of DuPage is located in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. The school offers a sterile processing program that lasts for one college semester.
The program covers topics relating to sterile processing, such as how to properly store medical equipment, equipment maintenance, and aseptic techniques.
The Allied Institute of Professional Studies
The AIPS can be found in Chicago and has a sterile processing and distribution program that will help you become a successful sterile processing tech. The program is designed to help students prepare for both the CRCST exam and the SPDTC exam.
The course covers topics such as infection prevention, microbiology, disinfection, high and low-temperature sterilization, and safe practices in the central service department.
Salary Expectations
The average annual salary of a sterile processing technician in Illinois is $42,319. This is just under the national average salary for a sterile processing technician, which is $42,420.
Job Outlook
Sterile processing technicians are currently highly sought after in both Illinois and the rest of the country. So, certification and training will almost guarantee you a job in the industry.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has also projected a 6% increase in the sector between by 2031.
Where To Find Work As A Sterile Processing Technician In Illinois
You can find work as a sterile processing technician at the following facilities:
- A central sterile processing department
- Dentist practices
- Oral surgeon practices
- Surgery centers
- Medical companies
- Private physician’s practices
- Hospitals
- Outpatient surgical centers
FAQs
Who do sterile processing technicians work with?
Sterile processing technicians generally work alone, but sometimes help surgical technologists set up operating rooms.
How do I move up as a sterile processing technician?
If you want to advance your career, you can get extra training and move into surgical technology or nursing, once you have some experience.
Sources
https://sterileprocessingtech.org/il/