Header Two

Central Sterile Processing Frequently Asked Questions

What is Central Sterile Processing?

Central Sterile Processing Technicians play a crucial behind-the-scenes role in patient care. Their main tasks include:

  • Decontamination: Cleaning used surgical tools and medical instruments after procedures to remove contaminants and biohazardous material.

  • Sterilization: Operating sterilization equipment such as autoclaves to ensure instruments are free from microorganisms.

  • Inspection and Assembly: Checking instruments for damage, reassembling complex sets (like surgical trays), and preparing them for surgery or other medical use.

  • Inventory Management: Tracking and maintaining surgical and medical supply inventories, ensuring items are available and sterile when needed.

  • Documentation and Compliance: Recording sterilization cycles, monitoring equipment function, and following strict hospital and regulatory standards (such as those set by AAMI, CDC, and OSHA).

What Will You Study?

The program courses typically include:

  • Medical Terminology
  • Microbiology
  • Instrumentation and Equipment Handling
  • Inventory and Supply Management
  • Safety and Regulations
  • Decontamination and Sterilization Techniques

Educational Requirements

  1. High School Diploma or GED
    • You must have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.

  2. Certification Exam
    • Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to take a national certification examination, as administered by the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CSPD, Inc.).

How long does it take to complete the Program?

The 22 credit-hour program leads to a Certificate of Technical Studies and prepares the student for entry-level employment. The duration of this program is two semesters.

Types of roles

  • Hospitals: Work in the Central Sterile Supply Department (CSSD) or Central Service Department (CSD)
  • Ambulatory Surgery Centers: Smaller, outpatient surgical facilities
  • Dental or Oral Surgery Clinics: Sterilize dental tools and surgical instruments
  • Clinics and Specialty Centers: Endoscopy centers, Orthopedic or ophthalmology clinics, Plastic surgery centers

Skills Needed

  • Attention to detail: Ensuring instruments are properly cleaned and functional.
  • Knowledge of sterilization techniques: Understanding infection control and aseptic practices.
  • Technical skills: Operating complex sterilization and cleaning machinery.
  • Teamwork and communication: Collaborating with nurses, surgeons, and other healthcare staff.