How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Illinois

If you would like to work in the healthcare industry, becoming a sterile processing technician is a good idea.

Although an entry-level job, sterile processing techs play a crucial role in the industry.

You will be in charge of sterilizing and decontaminating the medical equipment used by doctors and the rest of the medical personnel.

If you want to work as a sterile processing technician in Illinois, you should first have a good grasp of the rules and regulations in this state.

Sterile Processing Technician Job Duties and Skills in Illinois

You should be prepared to acquire a set of skills that will ensure you find a job fast.

In Illinois, the main tasks a sterile processing technician has are:

• Performing inventory checks
• Managing and keeping track of the spread of illness and infection
• Cleaning, sterilizing, packaging, and storing medical tools
• Maintaining and fixing medical equipment
• Following protocol and specific methods for suitable disinfection and sterilization of medical tools and equipment

Some employers might adjust the job tasks as they see fit.

However, the changes are usually minor.

You may also benefit from having other skills, like:

• Good organizational skills
• An ability to find and solve common problems related to the position
• Knowledge of the medical terminology
• A good understanding of aseptic techniques

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Illinois

Illinois is one of the many states where you don’t need a license in order to practice.

Having a certification will however increase your chances to get employed.

So, it is strongly suggested you get a certification, which is done by passing an exam.

In this state, you have some different options that you can choose from.

You can take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam offered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).

After you pass the exam, you can practice as a CRCST.

To practice as a CRCST, you need:

• A lab experience of about 400 hours
• Submit a fee
• Obtain a high school diploma or a GED
• Pass a background check and pass some drug tests
• Pass the licensing exam

This certification requires renewal once a year, while the exam’s duration is of 3 hours.

Or, you can work as a Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT).

This requires you to take the Sterile Processing Department Technician Certification (SPDTC) test offered by the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).

Training Programs for Sterile Processing Technicians in Illinois

Before the exam, you need to get the knowledge and experience needed to pass it.

For that, you can simply enroll in a school that provides sterile processing technician programs.

Just like in any other state, there are several schools that offer such courses.

Let’s learn more about these schools!

The College of DuPage

Enrolling in a program offered by this school is a good option for someone wanting to become a sterile processing technician. 

The school offers a sterile processing technician program where you will gain knowledge on how to manage and store medical equipment, how to maintain it, as well as various aseptic techniques.

You will also learn about central sterile processing, medical terminology, biology, and anatomy.

If you are wondering, this school is in Glen Ellyn.

The sterile processing tech program they offer lasts for a college semester.

The Allied Institute of Professional Studies

This school is located in Chicago, so it is very convenient to enroll if you live in the area.

The program it provides will prepare you for both exams, so you can take the one you choose after the course is over.

The theory part includes aseptic methods, bloodborne pathogens, and medical terminology.

No matter what school you choose, you can also work as the programs are flexible enough to give you free time.

By doing this, you will get even more experience which will help you gain more knowledge of how the industry works.

Sterile Processing Technician Salaries in Illinois

Once you complete your program and pass the exam, it is time to start looking for an employer.

You should not have any issues finding a good job, as sterile processing techs are highly sought after.

You can find work in a hospital, private clinic, dentists’ offices, or any other healthcare facility.

You are probably also wondering about the salary and what you should expect.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) stated that sterile processing technician positions will grow by 6 percent in the following 10 years.

In Illinois, the salaries for sterile processing technicians are a little higher than in other states, and even than the national average for this occupation.

Furthermore, you get the chance to advance your career the more experience you get.

The average salaries in Illinois are around $47,153 a year, which means you will make $23 an hour.

Remember that becoming a sterile processing tech can also prepare you to work in other areas within the healthcare field.

Regional Salary in Illinois

Sterile Processing Technician by State