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Sterile Processing Technician

Sterile Processing Technicians (SPT) are the key persons responsible for maintaining the quality of medical products that are processed, packaged and sterilized by a hospital. This program will prepare individuals to clean, sterilize and assemble surgical instruments, equipment and supplies for use in operating rooms and other medical and surgical facilities. The content includes instruction in sterilization, infection control, decontamination, and surgical instrumentation processing, distribution and record keeping.

Hospitals are the primary employers of sterile processing technicians, though some employment growth is expected in offices and clinics of physicians, including outpatient care centers, and ambulatory surgical centers, as well as nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Individuals who enjoy detailed, behind-the-scenes work in a fast-paced environment may enjoy a career as a sterile processing technician. It is the perfect role for someone who is interested in the healthcare industry, but would prefer not to have high levels of interactions with patients.

Sterile processing technician is an emerging profession and is expected to grow as the number of surgeries increases. With technological advancements in medical supplies, instruments, devices, and equipment, there is a high demand for sterile processing technicians in hospital and clinical settings.

Tuition & Potential Earnings

Estimated Tuition Cost

$1,387

Median Wage

$47,700

Based on Lightcast Occupational Employment Statistics

Academic Plan

  • Medical Terminology
  • Central Service Fundamentals
For course credits and descriptions, visit the Blackhawk Catalog.

  • Central Service Clinical Practices
For course credits and descriptions, visit the Blackhawk Catalog.

Flexible Learning Options

Many courses at Blackhawk are offered in one or more of these formats:

  • In-Person
  • Live Online (synchronous)
  • Online Anytime (asynchronous)
  • FlexLab (in-person when it fits your schedule)

For some courses, we offer a MyEdChoice option, allowing you to choose how to attend each class session. You can switch between online and in-person formats from week to week or even day to day, depending on your needs and schedule. More Information

In Person
MyEdChoice
Hybrid
FlexLab

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Get in touch with an advisor to discuss program details, curriculum, credit transfer options, and financial aid opportunities.

Additional Program Information

Health Insurance

Students must have proof of health insurance.

Background Check

If your petition into the program has been accepted, you will be required to complete a criminal background check, complete the health requirements, and perform drug testing before starting clinical courses. Wisconsin law requires background checks of persons who provide care for others or have access to people who receive care. This law applies to Blackhawk Technical College Health Sciences Division students. For more information about the background check, view the Criminal Background Check Information (PDF).

In accordance with Wisconsin Caregiver Background law, applicants with a criminal history may be denied placement by clinical affiliates or ineligible for national certification examinations. Applicants with any criminal background are strongly advised to meet with the program faculty and/or program advisor.

In addition to health insurance and background check, students will also need to have a complete physical examination and meet program health requirements. 

Upon successful completion of this program, you will be able to:

  • Apply principles of infection control in the role of the Central Service Technician
  • Decontaminate instruments and equipment
  • Prepare instruments, equipment and supplies
  • Apply sterilization techniques
  • Perform inventory control and distribution
  • Function as an ethical, legal and professional member of the healthcare team
Sterile Processing Technician student in lab

Highlights

Technical Diploma

8 Credits

Beloit-Janesville Campus

6004 S. County Road G, Janesville, WI 53546

Related Offerings

Potential Careers

Central Service Technician

Sterile Processing Technician

Central Processing/ Reprocessing Technician

Career Pathways

A Career Pathway is a step-by-step plan designed to lead you to career success and advancement.

1

Technical Diploma

2

Associate Degree

University Transfer

Earning a bachelor’s degree has never been more convenient and affordable! We offer a variety of options for students who want to achieve a four-year degree.