Sterile Processing Technician Schools In Maryland – Find Programs
Are you interested in a job as a sterile processing technician in Maryland?
Great choice. But where do you start looking for education programs?
That’s where we come in. In this article, we’re looking at some of the best schools, job outlooks, salaries, and where to find work in Maryland.
Licensing Requirements In Maryland
You don’t require licensing to become a sterile processing technician in Maryland. However, getting certified is highly recommended to get a well-paid job.
Also, many job opportunities simply aren’t available without certification or at least some sort of training. Remember, you’re in charge of infection control for employees and patients.
Certification
You don’t have to get certified to get a job as a sterile processing technician in Maryland. But it does give your new employer peace of mind that you know enough about the job to complete work to industry standards.
There are five levels of certification provided by The International Association of Healthcare Central Service Management (IAHCSMM).
Alternatively, there is certification through the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD). Here, you’ll receive competency-based exams after graduating from your training program. You’ll also need 12 months of experience to receive your certification.
Most programs focus on:
- Inventory management
- Patient care equipment
- Medical terminology
- The sterilization process
- Surgical instruments training
Best Education Programs
Anne Arundel Community College
This program contains two courses: the Central Sterile Processing Technician course and the Workforce Success Skills course. These courses will help you obtain the theory needed to pass the IAHCSMM exam to become certified.
To enroll you need a high school diploma or an equivalent, be 18 years or older, and have basic computer knowledge.
The full course will set you back $2,342, but there are scholarships available.
Carroll Community College
Carroll Community College offers a workforce training program that includes interactive lab sessions and lectures. It takes three or four months to complete with a total of 96 hours required.
The total program costs $1,374 and you must be at least 18 to enroll.
Frederick Community College
To complete the Sterile Processing Technician Workforce Training Certificate you need to complete two courses:
- Sterile Processing Technician Training
- Foundation for Healthcare or ADE632 Bridge to Careers: Healthcare
The Foundation for Healthcare course costs between $229-$294, depending on if you’re in-state. While the Sterile Processing Technician Training course costs between $399-$452.
Job Outlook
The outlook for healthcare careers in sterile processing is fantastic. There is about a 6% increase predicted for medical equipment preparers between 2019-2029.
However, this has increased even more due to the pandemic, whereby healthcare facilities now place a lot more value on preparing equipment.
Salaries
Generally, across the US you can expect your salary to be anywhere between $30,000-$60,000, depending on your credentials and experience.
Where To Find Work
To find a sterile processing technician job in Maryland it’s best to look at:
- Hospitals
- Oral surgeons
- Outpatient surgical clinics
- Dentists
You may have more luck in larger cities such as Columbia and Baltimore.
FAQ
What type of person should I be for a job as a processing technician?
You should have extreme attention to detail and be focused on following regulations. You also need to have great communication skills as you’ll be working with all kinds of medical professionals.
What do employers look for in sterile processing technicians?
Employers generally want someone certified, over the age of 18, and dedicated to the healthcare system.
Is there growth potential for sterile processing technicians?
Yes, with the right training, you can get into nursing and other healthcare positions.
Sources:
https://sterileprocessingtech.org/md/
https://www.aacc.edu/programs-and-courses/job-training/health-care-professions/sterile-processing/
https://noncredit.aacc.edu/search/publicCourseSearchDetails.do?method=load&courseId=1133841
https://www.frontrange.edu/programs-and-courses/a-z-program-list/sterile-processing-technology