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The healthcare industry offers an excellent working environment known for its stability compared to other professions.
One potential career path to consider is becoming a sterile processing technician.
If you are interested in pursuing this job, it is important to understand the requirements.
Below, we will provide guidance on how to become a sterile processing technician in Nevada.
Article Table of Contents
Job Duties and Skills of Sterile Processing Technicians in Nevada
In Nevada, obtaining a license is not necessary for securing your first job, as is the case in most U.S. states, with a few exceptions.
But, it is highly recommended to obtain certification.
While many medical facilities hire sterile processing technicians without a license, most prefer candidates with prior experience.
Therefore, certification is essential to demonstrate the skills and knowledge required for the job.
The daily responsibilities of a sterile processing technician typically include:
- Performing inventory checks
- Managing and monitoring the prevention of illness and infection
- Cleaning, sterilizing, packaging, and storing medical tools
- Maintaining and repairing medical equipment
- Following protocols and specific methods for appropriate disinfection and sterilization of medical tools and equipment
In addition to these duties, acquiring additional skills such as good organizational abilities, problem-solving skills specific to the role, knowledge of medical terminology, and a solid understanding of aseptic techniques is beneficial.
It is important to note that job tasks and required skills may vary depending on the employer.
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Nevada
Now, let’s explore the process of obtaining certification as a sterile processing technician.
There are several ways to achieve this goal.
The easiest method is to take and pass the three-hour national certification exam.
Several organizations offer certification exams in Michigan, including the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).
HSPA offers five levels of licensing, but the entry level is sufficient for beginning your career.
Following that, you will need to take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification exam.
Another option is to obtain certification through the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).
To become licensed, you must pass the exam and also have 12 months of prior experience.
Other requirements include completing approximately 400 hours of laboratory experience, submitting a fee, obtaining a high school diploma or GED, passing a background check and drug tests, and passing the licensing exam.
It is important to remember that your sterile processing technician certification will require annual renewal.
Additionally, attending extra classes and workshops can help you stay updated with industry changes.
Training Programs for Sterile Processing Technicians in Nevada
To achieve the best results, it is advisable to enroll in a school that offers a sterile processing technician program.
Such a program will provide you with the necessary knowledge and hands-on experience to obtain certification.
In Nevada, there are several schools that offer sterile processing technician programs.
Further information about these educational institutions can be found below.
The College of Southern Nevada 
The College of Southern Nevada in Las Vegas (CSN) provides a three-course certificate program.
You will get to learn more about essential topics, such as:
- Anatomy
- Microbiology
- Medical terminology
- Complex instrument identification
- Decontamination & sterilization techniques
- Setting up & transporting instrument trays
- Medical equipment and surgical instrument assembly
- Ordering and distributing supplies to surrounding facilities
Once you finish this program, you will be ready to take the national certification test.
Truckee Meadows Community College
This community college is located in Reno.
The school provides a three-course skills certificate program which is meant to help future sterile processing technicians to pass the HPSA CRCST national certification test.
The available program has to be attended in person and enables students to get experience in a clinical setting.
This way, you can get the clinical hours required to take the national exam.
As a student, you can expect to gain knowledge on the same topics listed above.
These 2 courses were modeled one after the other.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| The College of Southern Nevada | 333 S Pavilion Center Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89144 |
| Truckee Meadows Community College | 7000 Dandini Blvd, Reno, NV 89512 |
Sterile Processing Technician Salaries in Nevada
Once you have obtained your license, securing employment as a sterile processing technician should be relatively straightforward due to your certification and professional experience.
Numerous healthcare facilities, including hospitals, laboratories, doctor’s offices, clinics, and dental practices, actively hire sterile processing technicians.
If you’re curious about the potential earnings in this role, the average annual salary in Nevada is approximately $46,000, with an hourly rate of $23.
But, you should know that a few factors contribute to the actual salary, primarily your level of experience.
Generally, the more experience you have in the field, the higher your pay is likely to be.
Furthermore, the medical industry provides promising prospects for career advancement.
According to the U.S. Bureau Of Labor Statistics, sterile processing technicians are highly sought after.
Jobs in the sector are expected to increase by about 6 percent in the next 10 years.
So, you can expect to have a long and rewarding career as a sterile processing technician.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Las Vegas | $46,649 |
| North Las Vegas | $46,649 |
| Henderson | $46,465 |
| Reno | $46,323 |
| Sparks | $46,323 |
| Sun Valley | $46,323 |
| Carson City | $46,259 |
| Alamo | $45,960 |
| Silver Springs | $45,639 |
| Manhattan | $45,602 |
Regional Salary in Nevada
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, NV | 270 | $43,680 | $21 | $61,000 | $24,960 |
| Reno, NV | 110 | $43,420 | $20.88 | $54,560 | $31,280 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Get a New Certification Yearly?
Like many healthcare professionals, sterile processing technicians must ensure that they renew their certification on an annual basis.
Although state regulations may not mandate certification, maintaining your national certification is necessary and should be done regularly.
How Promising Are The Employment Opportunities For Sterile Processing Technicians in Nevada?
The projected job growth rate for sterile processing technicians in Nevada is estimated to be approximately 6% from 2019 to 2029.
What is the cost of obtaining my certification?
The certification test carries a fee of $125, whereas the recertification process is usually less expensive.
Generally, you will need to complete the necessary paperwork with your hospital and pass a brief written examination.
The test content primarily focuses on the routine steps and procedures you perform daily, making it relatively easy to pass.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician
Sterile Processing Technician by State
With the healthcare industry’s consistent demand for skilled professionals, becoming a Sterile Processing tech offers job security and opportunity for growth.
Start by researching accredited training programs in Nevada that offer the necessary education and hands-on experience to become proficient in sterile processing.
Becoming a Sterile Processing Tech in Nevada is a rewarding career choice, especially as healthcare facilities rely on these professionals to maintain infection control standards.