How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Indiana

While the profession of sterile processing technician may not be widely recognized, it plays a vital role in the healthcare system.

Individuals pursuing this career path are responsible for supplying sterile instruments to medical teams operating in hospitals, thus ensuring that patients receive the necessary care and are protected from acquiring further infections.

In the United States, each state has its own unique set of regulations and guidelines governing this profession.

Now, let’s delve into the process of becoming a sterile processing technician in the State of Indiana.

Sterile Processing Technician Job Duties and Skills in Indiana

Sterile processing technicians are entrusted with specific job responsibilities that necessitate particular skills.

It is important to note that employers may modify the requirements according to their discretion.

In Indiana, the daily job duties of a sterile processing technician typically encompass the following tasks:

• 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

Nurses and other healthcare personnel can sometimes fulfill sterile processing duties, but technicians play a crucial role in facilitating their work.

Certain skills are necessary to be considered for a sterile technician position.

Here are some essential skills that are highly valuable in this field:

• Strong organizational skills
• Able to identify and troubleshoot common problems related to the position
• Good understanding of medical terminology
• Good knowledge of aseptic techniques

I will now reveal what it takes to secure a position as a sterile processing tech.

Becoming a Sterile Processing Technician in Indiana

It is important to note that a sterile processing technician position is generally considered an entry-level job.

While certain states may mandate a license for employment, Indiana does not require one.

However, obtaining a certificate can enhance your prospects of securing a position more quickly.

In Indiana, there are two associations through which you can obtain the necessary certification.

One such association is the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).

This organization provides an examination that you must successfully pass in order to become a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST).

The requirements for becoming a CRCST typically include:

• 400 hours of lab experience in a laboratory
• Paying a fee
• Having a high school diploma or a GED
• Taking a background check and submitting drug tests
• Taking and passing the licensing exam

Additionally, it is essential to note that the sterile processing technician credential must be renewed annually.

Alternatively, you can opt to pursue accreditation through the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).

To obtain this accreditation, you will need to take the Sterile Processing Department Technician Certification (SPDTC) exam.

Successfully passing this exam will grant you the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) certification.

Training Programs for Sterile Processing Technicians in Indiana

One thing you should know about these training programs is that most of them teach the same subjects.

The topics are, more or less seen in this list:

• Principles of aseptic techniques
• Medical terminology
• Bloodborne pathogens
• HIPPA requirements

Most courses should also ensure students can complete the mandatory 400 hours of clinical practice.

Let’s see the schools that offer a course for training future sterile processing technicians.

Penn Foster College

This institution offers an online program, meaning that anyone can attend it, even at their leisure.

The tuition can be paid using several methods, allowing anyone to receive the desired education.

The one advantage of selecting this school is that the tuition covers the certification exam as well.

Ivy Tech Community College

This Community college has more than 40 campuses, making it the state’s largest public postsecondary institution.

By participating in the program offered to future SPTs, students will earn an Associate’s Degree as well as partake in 900 hours in a clinic for practice hours.

The duration of the program is around 2 years.

University of Saint Francis

The program available through this university also lasts for 2 years and students will obtain an Associate’s Degree.

The university offers a variety of tuition-paying plans so that its students will graduate debt-free.

Indiana University Health

This university has a program for future surgical technicians but it also covers sterile processing technology.

The program lasts for up to a year and issues a certificate.

Regardless of which school or program you choose, you can be certain you can pass the certification exam mentioned earlier.

Below you can find out at which campuses these programs are available.

Sterile Processing Technician Salaries in Indiana

Naturally, you may be curious about the salary you can anticipate once you secure a position as a sterile processing technician in Indiana.

Fortunately, the healthcare industry is renowned for offering some of the highest salaries across the country.

While sterile processing technicians earn less than certain other medical professionals, they still enjoy competitive compensation.

In Indiana, salaries for sterile processing technicians are lower in comparison to the national average, but in some cities, your income will be higher than that.

If you embark on a career as a sterile processing technician in Florida, you can expect an average annual salary of approximately $44,000, which translates to roughly $21 per hour.

Moreover, this profession is in demand, so you should encounter little difficulty in securing employment promptly after obtaining certification.

Regional Salary in Indiana

Sterile Processing Technician by State