Sterile Processing Technician Schools In Utah – Find Programs
Sterile processing techs (SPTs) provide a crucial service in many departments, from the operating room to outpatient clinics. Their primary responsibility is to prevent the spread of infection to keep staff and patients safe.
This might sound like a high-stress job requiring a degree, but some educational programs based in Utah can be completed in less than a year.
This guide explores how to enter this industry and gives details about reputable sterile processing technician schools in Utah.
Are There Legal Requirements For Becoming A Sterile Processing Technician In Utah?
There are no legal requirements for becoming a sterile processing technician in Utah. This means you can practice as a sterile processing technician in the state, as long as you meet your employer’s minimum requirements.
However, passing a nationally recognized certification exam can improve your career prospects and set you apart from other job seekers.
Becoming A Sterile Processing Technician In Utah
While a sterile processing technician performs the same duties across the US, candidates in Utah are advised to follow a certain procedure. This is what most employers in the state will look out for when hiring for the role:
Diploma
Sterile processing technicians must be over the age of 18 and have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. This is the minimum requirement for most educational programs.
Experience
While not always necessary, proving that you have experience working in a healthcare setting can minimize the amount of training you require. This can allow you to get stuck into the role and is likely to impress potential employers.
Certification
Certification is not a state requirement, but it will make your application stand out from the crowd.
The Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certificate from the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) is the most common certification for SPTs. HSPA was formerly known as the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM).
Sterile Processing Technician Majors And Programs In Utah
Utah has fewer options for sterile processing programs at all education levels compared to other states. However, there are plenty of national programs that you can complete online.
Sterile Processing Technician (Mountainland Technical College)
The Mountainland Technical College Program is based in Utah and provides training on the decontamination and preparation of sterile surgical instruments. Upon completion, sterile processing technician grads should be prepared to take the CRCST exam.
Sterile Processing Diploma Program (Herzing University)
This 24-credit program at Herzing University is based in Wisconsin, MI, but is available online to students across the country. It focuses on surgical instruments and infection control.
Surgical/Sterile Processing Technician Certificate (Franklin University)
Franklin University’s online program covers equipment sterilization, lab analysis, and inventory management. It also prepares students for the Tech in Surgery Certified (TS-C) and CRCST exams.
For more information on any of these courses, including their cost and duration, contact the program coordinator.
What Is The Job Outlook For Sterile Processing Technician Careers in Utah?
With national job growth at 6% and 3,700 new jobs expected to be created between 2021 and 2031, sterile processing technician careers are on the rise. This is based on information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
According to the same source, a sterile processing technician based in Utah can earn an annual mean wage of $40,210. This is lower than the national mean wage of $42, 420, but can increase in line with your skills and experience.
Working In Utah As A Sterile Processing Technician
Sterile processing technician jobs are currently in high demand across the country. This means there is excellent job growth for sterile processing technician grads looking to enter the field.
SPTs from all degree levels are employed in various sectors across the healthcare industry, including:
- Outpatient clinics
- Dental surgeries
- GP practices
- Hospitals
In a hospital setting, for example, a technician would be responsible for assisting a surgical team from behind the scenes. Keeping instruments sterilized is crucial in preventing infection.
Examples of where you can find sterile processing technician jobs in Utah include:
- University of Utah Hospital
- Utah Surgical Center
- Utah Valley Hospital
FAQs
How do I get into sterile processing in Utah?
While Utah has few options when it comes to sterile processing technician majors, students can take advantage of online courses.
What is the best online school for sterile processing?
Some of the highest-rated online schools for sterile processing programs are Herzing University, Purdue University, and Franklin University.
What is the median salary for a Sterile Processing Technician in Utah?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the UT median salary for a sterile processing technician is $38,220.
Sources
https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes319093.htm#st
https://mtec.edu/programs/sterile-processing-technician/
https://www.herzing.edu/healthcare/sterile-processing-program
https://myhspa.org/certification/get-certified/crcst-application.html