A sterile processing technician can be either an allied healthcare or manufacturing professional.
These sterilization professionals are responsible for ensuring that medical instruments and equipment are properly cleaned, sterilized, and maintained to prevent the spread of infection.
Their job involves preparing and packaging instruments and equipment for medical procedures and surgeries and ensuring that all instruments are functioning properly and in good condition.
They are also responsible for monitoring and maintaining the inventory of supplies and equipment in the sterile processing areas of hospitals, medical facilities, and industrial environments where they sterilize tools and equipment.
Sterile processing technicians are an integral part of their teams.
As such, they are required to understand and follow strict protocols to maintain a clean and safe environment.
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5 Steps to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Kansas
Below are five easy-to-follow steps to help Kansas-area residents prepare to become sterile processing technicians in Kansas.
Step 1: Meet the Education Requirements
Sterile processing technicians in Kansas will typically need to have completed a minimum of a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent to enter a professional training program for medical equipment preparation.
Some employers may prefer candidates with a college degree or previous healthcare experience.
To determine specific education requirements, it is important to check with each Kansas area training program or employer.
Step 2: Complete a Sterile Processing Technician Training Program
To become a sterile processing technician in Kansas, you must complete a training program.
These programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, and technical schools.
The length of the program varies but typically lasts 6-12 months.
The curriculum includes classroom and hands-on training in infection control, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and advanced sterilization techniques.
Step 3: Gain Work Experience
After completing the training program, you will need to gain practical work experience.
Many employers prefer candidates with at least one year of experience in the field.
You can gain experience through internships, on-the-job training, or entry-level positions at hospitals and manufacturing environments that hire sterilization techs.
Step 4: Obtain Certification
Certification is not required to become a sterile processing technician, but it is highly recommended.
The most common certification is the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification.
To become certified in sterile processing, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge of sterile processing techniques and related topics.
Step 5: Maintain Certification and Continuing Education
To maintain your certification, you must participate in continuing education and renew your certification periodically.
Continuing education can be obtained through workshops, seminars, and online courses.
In addition, staying current with new technology and advances in the field is essential.
Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Kansas
Kansas offers limited options for brick-and-mortar training to become a sterile processing technician.
Below are options for earning the credits, skills, and experience to become certified sterile processing technicians in Kansas.
Washburn Tech – Topeka, KS
About The School
The Sterile Processing Technician program at Washburn Tech prepares students for certification and a career as sterilization technicians in the medical or industrial fields.
Courses Offered
- Preparation of Sterile Instruments
- Storage of Sterile Instruments
- Distribution of Sterile Instruments
Contact Information
- Address: 5724 SW Huntoon, Topeka, KS 66604
- Phone: 785-670-2200
- Website: https://www.washburntech.edu/career-programs/health-care/sterile-processing.html
Students interested in distance learning options for sterile processing technician training can find online options that allow them to take classes and become certified from home.
Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Kansas – Summary Table
Top 1 Schools in Kansas
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Washburn Tech - Topeka, KS | 5724 SW Huntoon, Topeka, KS 66604 |
Salary
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a steady job growth rate of around 15% more than average for Sterile Processing Technicians in the US.
They also report that the average salary for sterile processing technicians is just over $40,000 annually.
This annual salary equates to a national average of around $20.40 per hour for medical equipment preparers and sterile processing technicians who work in US hospitals and manufacturing environments.
State of Kansas – Average Salary: $36,820 – $38,870 per year.
Source – US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Sterile Processing Technicians in Kansas
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Kansas City | $37,420 |
| Hutchinson | $35,610 |
| Lawrence | $36,050 |
| Topeka | $35,300 |
| Wichita | $35,990 |
| Olathe | $37,210 |
| Salina | $35,610 |
| Shawnee | $37,310 |
| Manhattan | $34,920 |
| Overland Park | $37,310 |
Regional Salary in Kansas
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wichita, KS | 100 | $36,610 | $17.6 | $47,330 | $31,240 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Do People Become Sterile Processing Technicians?
Becoming a sterile processing technician requires completing a training program, gaining practical work experience, obtaining certification, and maintaining your certification through continuing education.
It is a rewarding career that plays a vital role in preventing the spread of infection and ensuring patient safety.
Where Do Sterile Processing Technicians Work?
Sterile processing technicians work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers.
They may work in shifts and be required to work weekends and holidays.
They may also be required to wear protective clothing and follow strict safety protocols to prevent exposure to infectious materials.
What Steps Should I Take To Become A Sterile Processing Technician in Kansas?
Becoming a sterile processing technician typically requires completing a training program and obtaining certification.
Here are the step-by-step instructions to become a sterile processing technician in Kansas.
How Much Do Sterile Processing Technicians Make in Kansas?
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that sterile processing technicians and medical equipment preparers in Kansas make between $36,820 – $38,870 annually.
