Sterile Processing Technician Schools in South Carolina – Find Programs

Sterile processing technicians (SPT) make sure all medical equipment has been sterilized before surgery, making them integral members of the medical field.

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If you want to work in the medical field but don’t want to study for four years, some sterile processing technician schools in South Carolina have programs that can be completed in less than a year.

This guide will talk you through what it takes to become a sterile processing technician. We also cover some of the best SPT schools in South Carolina.

What Does a Sterile Processing Technician Do?

Sterile processing technicians are in charge of sterilizing and processing surgical instruments in healthcare settings. This includes hospitals, dentists, and surgery centers. They also monitor supplies and test instruments to make sure they work properly before they are used in surgeries.

Because they prevent the spread of infection, sterile processing technicians must take the time to make sure all tools are properly sanitized.

Licensing Requirements To Become a Sterile Processing Technician in South Carolina

In South Carolina, you don’t need a license to work as an SPT. This means you can get a job as an SPT in South Carolina without a certification.

However, some employers may still prefer you to have sterile processing technician training.

Some worthwhile certifications for sterile processing in South Carolina include:

Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

The CST by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is an important certification. It tests a candidate’s knowledge of what being a sterile processing technician involves.

Certified Endoscope Reprocessor (CER)

The CER by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) is another important certification. It teaches students how to clean, inspect, and store endoscopes and follow industry standards and guidelines.

The Best Education and Training Programs for Sterile Processing in South Carolina

Midlands Technical College

The Sterile Processing Technician program teaches students about processing surgical instruments, including infection control, medical equipment management, and instrument inventory. This knowledge is needed to become a certified SPT.

The remote online program consists of virtual learning classes that prepare students for the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) certification.

Trident Technical College

The Sterile Processing Technician course teaches students how to disinfect equipment, order supplies, and control infection. These are just some of the daily duties carried out by an SPT.

The program also focuses on medical terminology so students are prepared for a career in sterile processing within any healthcare environment.

Coastal Carolina Community College

The Central Sterile Processing Technician course provides a comprehensive overview of the skills and experience needed to become an SPT anywhere in the U.S.

Upon completion of the program, students should be equipped to take the CSPDT exam.

Does Sterile Processing Have a Good Job Outlook?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, sterile processing is growing at a rate of 6% with an average of 3,700 new jobs created from 2021-2031.

If you are considering a career in the medical field, a position as an SPT can provide job satisfaction. It can also provide an attractive salary compared to some other healthcare professions.

There are also plenty of opportunities for career progression with some sterile processing technicians going on to work in surgical technology, nursing, or even senior management.

The Average Salary of a Sterile Processing Technician

As an SPT in South Carolina, the annual mean salary is between $36,820 to $38,870,according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is higher than North Carolina which currently has a range of $22,620 to $36,730.

Where to Find Work as a Sterile Processing Technician in South Carolina

In South Carolina, sterile processing technicians can work in any healthcare setting as long as there is a Sterile Processing department. This includes:

  • Hospitals
  • Dentists
  • Doctor Surgeries
  • Medical Facilities
  • Surgery Centers

FAQs

Is sterile processing a stressful job?

While organization and attention to detail are needed, sterile processing isn’t seen as a stressful job. As long as you have been given enough training, you should be able to get on with your daily tasks with minimal stress.

How difficult is it to become a certified sterile processing technician?

As long as you study hard and pass the final exam, you should have no problem becoming a fully-certified SPT.

Can you progress from sterile processing?

While some sterile processing technicians are happy in their role, others may choose to advance their careers. One of the most common ways to do this is to become a surgical technologist. This is someone that specializes in a particular piece of equipment, such as an endoscope reprocessor.