How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in South Carolina

The healthcare industry in South Carolina provides a stable and secure working environment, attracting many individuals seeking employment opportunities.

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a sterile processing technician, it is important to acquaint yourself with the prerequisites.

In the subsequent sections, you will find a comprehensive guide to becoming a sterile processing technician in South Carolina.

Job Responsibilities and Skills of a Sterile Processing Technician in South Carolina

In South Carolina, getting a certification for your initial position as a sterile processing technician is not needed.

However, acquiring certification is highly recommended as it expands career prospects.

As a sterile processing technician, your daily duties will encompass:

• Conducting inventory checks
• Managing and monitoring the spread of illness and infection
• Cleaning, sterilizing, packaging, and storing medical instruments
• Maintaining and repairing medical equipment

It is also advantageous to develop additional skills, like:

• Strong organizational skills
• Problem-solving abilities relevant to the role
• Knowledge of medical terminology
• A thorough understanding of aseptic techniques

Job responsibilities and required skills may vary depending on the employer and specific work setting.

Becoming a Sterile Processing Technician in South Carolina

Now, let us explore the different pathways to obtain certification as a sterile processing technician in South Carolina.

The most direct route is to take and pass the national certification exam, usually lasting around three hours.

Several organizations offer licensing exams in South Carolina, including the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).

HSPA has five levels of certification, although the first certification is usually sufficient.

Upon acquiring the entry-level certification, you can proceed to take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification exam.

Another idea is getting licensed through the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).

In addition to passing the certification exam, obtaining a license as a sterile processing technician requires 12 months of relevant experience.

Further requirements include:

• Completing approximately 400 hours of lab experience
• Submitting the necessary fees
• Obtaining a high school diploma or GED
• Passing a background check and drug tests
• Successfully passing the licensing exam

Remember that your license must be renewed every year.

Training Programs for Sterile Processing Technicians in South Carolina

Let’s have a look at the schools that offer sterile assistant programs in this state.

Midlands Technical College

At Midlands Technical College, students can enroll in the Sterile Processing Technician program, which provides training on:

• Processing surgical instruments
• Emphasizing infection control
• Medical equipment management
• Keeping an inventory of medical tools

The program is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to become certified Sterile Processing Technicians (SPTs).

This remote online program offers a convenient learning experience through virtual classes.

Students will engage in interactive learning activities that prepare them for the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) certification.

Trident Technical College

Trident Technical College offers a Sterile Processing Technician course that focuses on teaching students essential skills in disinfecting equipment, ordering supplies, and infection control.

These are vital responsibilities carried out by SPTs on a daily basis.

The program also emphasizes the importance of medical terminology, ensuring that students are well-prepared for a successful career in sterile processing.

Coastal Carolina Community College

Coastal Carolina Community College provides a thorough Central Sterile Processing Technician course.

It offers students a comprehensive overview of the skills and experience required to become an SPT anywhere in the United States.

Upon completing the program, students will be equipped with the proficiency needed to take the CSPDT exam.

Aiken Technical College

Aiken Technical College, located in Aiken, SC, offers a Surgical Technology program.

In addition to teaching students how to process and sterilize surgical equipment, the program covers a wide range of skills, such as:

• Handling specimens
• Equipment maintenance
• Helping doctors during surgical procedures.

Greenville Technical College

Greenville Technical College, situated in Greenville, SC, provides a comprehensive Central Sterile Processing Technician course.

This program focuses on training students to effectively decontaminate, sterilize, and redistribute medical equipment, ensuring adherence to strict safety protocols and industry standards.

Piedmont Technical College

Piedmont Technical College, located in Greenwood, SC, offers a Diploma in Applied Science in Surgical Technology.

Students in this program receive instruction in sterile technique, as well as hands-on training in surgical assisting.

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates have the option to pursue an Associate in Applied Science degree in General Technology.

Sterile Processing Technician Salaries in South Carolina

Once you have obtained your certification as a licensed sterile processing technician, the process of finding employment should be relatively straightforward.

All medical and surgical institutions recognize the crucial role of skilled sterile processing technicians in ensuring a safe and sterile environment for medical procedures.

You may also need to know how much you can earn.

In South Carolina, the median annual salary for sterile processing technicians is $43,000, with an hourly rate of $21.

Remember that your experience in the field will play a role in how much you are earning.

One of the benefits of working as a sterile processing technician is the opportunity for career advancement and growth.

Regional Salary in South Carolina

Sterile Processing Technician by State