How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Hawaii

Hawaii’s healthcare facilities must maintain cleanliness and sterility of tools and equipment, which is a standard requirement globally.

While general cleaning is not the responsibility of medical professionals, the institution employs sterile processing technicians to ensure the tools used on patients are properly sterilized.

The role of sterile processing technicians is critical in maintaining a safe and sanitary environment in healthcare facilities.

By reading this article you’ll find out what it takes to become a sterile processing technician, your expected salary, and more!

Sterile Processing Technician Job Duties and Skills in Hawaii

It is challenging to be hired for a position in which you lack skills or qualifications and to become a successful sterile processing technician, there are specific skills that you should possess.

Some of the most common skills for a future sterile processing tech include:

• Strong organizational skills
• Good conversation skills
• Critical thinking
• Being respectful
• Able to stand for a longer time than others
• Identifying and troubleshooting common sterilization and storage problems
• A good understanding of medical terminology and aseptic techniques
• Accountability and personal responsibility

Indeed, many of the skills needed for a sterile processing technician position are transferable to other jobs in the healthcare field or beyond.

Here are some of the attributes you’ll need for this position:

• Strong organizational skills
• Good conversation skills
• Critical thinking
• Being respectful
• Able to stand for a longer time than others
• Identifying and troubleshooting common sterilization and storage problems
• A good understanding of medical terminology and aseptic techniques
• Accountability and personal responsibility

You’ll find that different employers may have other expectations when compared to others, as well as based on your experience.

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Hawaii

There are many medical professions that require a license from the candidates, however, that of a sterile processing technician is not one of them.

While it may not be a legal requirement to become certified or complete a training program, doing so can increase your employment opportunities and enhance your knowledge and skills in the field.

To maintain your certified status, you’ll need to pay a renewal fee to renew your credentials.

The certification requirements may vary depending on the employer, but some common hiring prerequisites include:

• Finish high school or get a GED
• Pass a background check
• Pass a drug test
• Apply for the certification exam
• Pay the required fees
• Register with the testing center
• Obtain a passing score on the certification exam

It’s true that you cannot pass a test without studying beforehand.

Those aspiring for certification often opt to attend a training program offered by schools that provide such classes.

To maintain your certified status, you’ll need to pay a renewal fee to renew your credentials.

Let’s learn more about the sterile processing technician training courses available in Hawaii!

Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Hawaii

During training, individuals learn about medical terminology and procedures, infection control protocols, and how to operate and maintain equipment used in sterilization processes.

They also gain practical experience in a clinical setting, which helps them develop the necessary skills to work in a fast-paced and high-stress environment.

Other classes include:

• Surgical instrumentation processing
• Storage and inventory management
• Documentation and record maintenance

Training classes may be offered at the certificate or Associate’s Degree levels, with the latter types offering more when it comes to the benefits you’ll qualify for.

Hawaii Medical College

Pursuing a sterile processing technician program at Hawaii Medical College is an excellent way to gain the knowledge and skills needed by a successful professional in this field.

The six-month program is relatively short compared to many other healthcare training programs, which means you can start working relatively quickly.

Kapiolani Community College

Pursuing this program at the community college can provide you with a more comprehensive education and more extensive hands-on training experience in the field.

The one-year program can allow you to gain a deeper understanding of:

• Medical terminology
• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Infection control

Depending on the duration of the class, you may not have the same subjects of study at both of these institutions.

Now that you know which schools you can enroll at, let’s find out where are the campuses located!

Sterile Processing Technician Salaries in Hawaii

Salary is a crucial factor that people consider when assessing potential job opportunities.

Hawaii’s salaries are as competitive as those in other states, it’s important to note that we’re talking about an entry-level position in the medical field.

The healthcare industry typically offers higher pay rates compared to other industries.

In Hawaii, the lowest median salary for a sterile processing technician is approximately $38,000 per year, while the highest average annual income for this occupation is about $62,000.

The majority of sterile processing technicians in Hawaii earn an average salary of $48,000 annually.

The income is higher in larger urban settings and where the facilities are also larger.

Annual Salary Range:

Regional Salary in Hawaii

Sterile Processing Technician by State