The healthcare industry is one of the largest employers in the United States. There
are a variety of names for sterile processing technicians:
- Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST)
- Sterile processing and distribution technician
- Sterilization technician
- Sterile instrument technician
- Medical instrument technician
- Central sterile technician
After completing the SPT program, work can be found anywhere medical equipment is
used, such as:
- Hospitals
- Dental surgery clinics
- Outpatient care centers
- Specialty care centers
- Ambulatory surgery centers
- Medical equipment processing facilities
- GI endoscopy clinics
- Medical supply and equipment distributors
With additional education and experience, graduates of the SPT program can work toward
certification as a:
- Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS)
- Certified Endoscope Reprocessor (CER)
- Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL)
Becoming a sterile processing technician provides a stepping-stone to other medical
career opportunities, allowing you employment while furthering your education. While
employed as an SPT, you will experience various areas of medicine that may entice
you to pursue other fields, such as Surgical Technology, Registered Nursing, Radiologic
Technology, etc. Overall, one of the best ways to increase your pay as a SPT is to
obtain additional education and certifications.