How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Missouri

Working in the healthcare industry offers a rewarding and favorable work environment.

Compared to other occupations, jobs in this field generally provide stability.

One potential career path to consider is becoming a sterile processing technician.

If you’re interested in this profession, it’s essential to understand the requirements.

Below, we will outline the steps to becoming a sterile processing technician in Missouri.

Job Duties and Skills of a Sterile Processing Technician in Missouri

In Missouri, obtaining a license is not mandatory for securing your initial job.

This is true for most states in the US, with only a few exceptions.

However, it is still highly suggested to obtain certification.

Although numerous healthcare facilities hire sterile processing technicians, many prefer candidates with prior experience.

Therefore, certification serves as evidence of your skills and knowledge required for the job.

The daily responsibilities of a sterile processing technician include:

• Conducting inventory checks.
• Managing and preventing the spread of illnesses and infections.
• Cleaning, sterilizing, packaging, and storing medical instruments.
• Maintaining and repairing medical equipment.
• Adhering to specific protocols and methods for disinfecting and sterilizing medical instruments and equipment.

Developing additional skills would also be beneficial, such as:

• Strong organizational skills.
• Problem-solving abilities related to the position.
• Knowledge of medical terminology.
• Understanding of aseptic techniques.

It’s important to note that job tasks and required skills may vary depending on the employer.

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Missouri

Now, let’s discuss the process of obtaining certification as a sterile processing technician.

There are several pathways to achieve this goal.

The simplest approach is to take and pass the national certification exam, which typically lasts three hours.

In Missouri, the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) organizes exams for certifying new sterile processing techs.

While this association provides five different levels of licensing, you only need to pursue the entry-level.

After that, you will need to take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification exam.

Another option is obtaining certification through the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).

To become licensed, you must pass the exam and also have at least a year of experience. Other requirements include these mini steps:

• Completion of approximately 400 hours of lab experience.
• Payment of a fee.
• Possession of a high school diploma or GED.
• Successful completion of a background check and drug tests.
• Passing the licensing exam.

The sterile processing technician certification needs an annual renewal.

Of course, you can take additional classes and workshops to update your education.

Training Programs for Sterile Processing Technicians in Missouri

To maximize your chances of success, consider enrolling in a school that offers a sterile processing technician program.

Such programs provide the necessary knowledge and hands-on experience required for certification.

In Missouri, there are some schools with available sterile processing technician programs.

Below, you can find more information about these schools and the offered programs.

University of Central Missouri

This university’s sterile processing technician assistant program features theory, lab hours, and practice.

You will also develop skills like:

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Teamwork

The clinical hours will teach you:

• Employment skills
• Terminology of medicine
• Anatomy basics
• Basic microbiology
• Infection prevention and control
• Disinfection, decontamination, and cleaning
• Medical and surgical instrumentation

If you are wondering how long this program lasts, you should know it spans over 5 months.

Classes take place 3 times a week, and each class lasts for 4 hours.

In the end, you will receive a diploma and be prepared to take the national certification exam.

Concorde Career College

This school is located in Kansas City, thus useful for students who either live in the area or are willing to travel.

The program lasts for 3 months online, during which you will get all the knowledge on how to become a successful sterile processing assistant.

The program combines in-person classes with online ones.

So, you don’t need to visit the campus every time you attend a class.

The program concentrates on essential health science concepts.

Some of the covered topics are:

• Sterilization techniques
• Inventory management
• Medical equipment examination

The clinical practice lasts for 8 hours and is completed at various health facilities in the city.

Salaries of Sterile Processing Technicians in Missouri

Once you have obtained your license, your goal will likely be to secure employment as soon as possible.

Fortunately, this should not be a difficult task considering your certification and ample experience.

Various facilities hire sterile processing technicians, including hospitals, laboratories, doctor’s offices, clinics, and dentist practices.

You may also be curious about the earning potential of a sterile processing technician.

In Missouri, salaries average around $43,728 per year and $21 per hour.

It’s important to note that these figures are influenced by several factors, such as your level of experience in the field.

The more experience you possess, the higher your earning potential.

In addition, the medical field offers ample opportunities for career advancement.

Regional Salary in Missouri

Sterile Processing Technician by State