WHAT IS STERILE PROCESSING??

Sterile processing is a fundamental aspect of healthcare, integral to patient safety and successful medical outcomes. At its core, it involves the decontamination, cleaning, inspection, assembly, packaging, sterilization, and distribution of reusable medical devices and instruments.
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FIRST...

In a typical cycle, used instruments from surgeries or medical procedures are first brought to the sterile processing department. Here, they undergo thorough cleaning to remove biological debris and potential contaminants. This is followed by meticulous inspection and assembly, ensuring each tool is in perfect working condition.

Next...

these instruments are carefully packaged and subjected to sterilization, using methods such as steam under pressure, dry heat, or chemical sterilizers. This step is crucial to eliminate all forms of microbial life, including spores, ensuring the instruments are aseptic and ready for their next use.

Finally....

Finally, the sterilized instruments are stored in a controlled environment until needed, completing a cycle that is vital for maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and patient care in healthcare facilities.

FAQ

  • What qualifications do I need to start a career in sterile processing?

    Most entry-level positions require a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of a certified sterile processing program. Certification may also be required or preferred by employers.

  • How long does it take to become certified in sterile processingCertification programs vary but typically range from a few months to a year, including both coursework and hands-on training

    Address common questions ahead of time to save yourself an email.

  • What skills are essential for success in sterile processing?

    Attention to detail, ability to follow strict protocols, good manual dexterity, and strong communication skills are key to success in this field

  • What is the job outlook for sterile processing technicians?

    The job outlook is positive, with faster-than-average growth expected in the healthcare sector, reflecting an ongoing need for professionals skilled in infection prevention.

  • Is there room for advancement in the sterile processing career?

    Yes, with experience, additional certifications, and education, you can advance to supervisory roles, education, or sales within the medical device industry.

What's included

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Instructors

  • Cory Mclaughlin

    Cory Mclaughlin

  • Terry Scott

    Terry Scott

    Terry Scott, a co-partner at Aseptic Technical Solutions, is a renowned figure in the Central Sterile community, with a career spanning over a decade. At Aseptic Technical Solutions, Terry is at the helm of virtual platforms, information technology, and advertising/marketing, leveraging his profound knowledge to advance the field. His innovative approach, especially in addressing lean production costs and boosting staff productivity, has been groundbreaking. Terry’s ability to translate theoretical sterilization knowledge into practical, technical solutions showcases his “out of the box” thinking and deep understanding of the industry’s intricacies.
  • Keena Coleman

    Keena Coleman

    Keenan K. Coleman, currently the Manager at Jefferson Orthopaedic Surgery Center, brings over ten years of rich experience to the forefront of sterile processing. His career trajectory is marked by a strong adaptability and meticulous attention to detail, qualities that are evident in his excellent communication skills and ability to effectively lead teams in demanding environments.

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Course curriculum

  • 1
    Orientation -start here
    • Virtual Syllabus
    • Intro to Central Sterile Processing
    • What is Sterile Processing and Why is it important?
    • Application Disclaimer
    • CRCST 9th edition Textbook Link
    • Zoom Link
    • Discord Access
  • 2
    Chapter 1: Introduction to Sterile Processing
  • 3
    Chapter 2 Medical Terminology for Sterile Processing Technicians
    • Chapter 2 Medical Terminology for Sterile Processing Technicians Learning Objectives
    • Medical Terminology Presentation
    • (Only complete if you haven't done quiz 2 already) *Chapter 2: Medical Terminology for Sterile Processing Quiz
    • (Don't complete if you did quiz 2 above already) Chapter 2: Medical Terminology for Sterile Processing Quiz
    • Copy of Chapter 2 Printouts
  • 4
    Chapter 3: Anatomy for Central Service Technicians
    • Chapter 3: Anatomy for Central Service Technicians Learning Objectives
    • Chapter 3 Anatomy for Central Service presentation
    • Chapter 3: Anatomy for Central Service Technicians Quiz
    • Chapter 3 Printouts
  • 5
    Chapter 4 Microbiology for Central Service Technicians
    • Chapter 4: Microbiology for Sterile Processing Technicians Learning Objectives
    • Chapter 4: Microbiology for Sterile Processing Technicians Presentation
    • Chapter 4: Microbiology for Sterile Processing Technicians Review Quiz
    • Chapter 4 Printouts
  • 6
    Chapter 5 Infection Prevention and Control
    • Chapter 5: Infection Prevention and Control Learning Objectives
    • Chapter 5: Infection Prevention and Control Presentation
    • Surgical Infection Control Procedures
    • Chapter 5: Infection Prevention and Control Review Quiz
    • Chapter 5 Printouts
    • Progress Exam One
    • Progress Test One
  • 7
    Chapter 6 Regulations and Standards
    • Chapter 6: Regulations and Standards Learning Objectives
    • Chapter 6: Regulations and standards Presentation
    • Chapter 6: Regulations and Standards Review Quiz
    • Chapter 6 Printouts
  • 8
    Chapter 7 Decontamination: Point-of-Use Preparation and Transport
    • Chapter 7: Decontamination Point-of-Use preparation and Transport Learning Objectives
    • Chapter 7: Decontamination: Point-of-use Preparation Transport Presentation
    • Point-of-Use Treatment and Sterile Processing
    • Point-of-use Treatment and Sterile Processing
    • Chapter 7: Decontamination Point-of-Use preparation and Transport Review Quiz
    • Chapter 7 Printouts
  • 9
    Chapter 8 Cleaning
    • Chapter 8: Cleaning Learning Objectives
    • Chapter 8: Cleaning Presentation
    • Chapter 8: Cleaning Review Quiz
    • Chapter 8 Printouts
  • 10
    Chapter 9 Disinfection
    • Chapter 9 Disinfection Learning Objectives
    • Chapter 9: Disinfection Presentation
    • Decontamination
    • Chapter 9: Disinfection Review Quiz
    • Progress Test Two
    • Copy Chapter 9 Printouts
  • 11
    Chapter 10 Surgial Instrumentation
    • Chapter 10 Surgical Instrumentation Learning Objectives
    • Chapter 10: Surgical Instrumentation Presentation
    • Critical Importance Inspecting Surgical Instruments & Devices
    • Bad scissor
    • Dirty Surgical Instruments
    • Chapter 10: Surgical Instrumentation Review Quiz
    • Copy of Chapter 10 Printouts
  • 12
    Chapter 11 Complex Surgical Instruments
    • Chapter 11: Complex Surgical Instruments Learning Objectives
    • Chapter 11 Complex Instruments Presentation
    • Manual Cleaning Process for Flexible Endoscopes using Matrix
    • Chapter 11: Complex Surgical Instruments Review Quiz
    • Robotic Instruments Challenges
    • test punch
    • Copy of Chapter 11 Printouts
  • 13
    Chapter 12 Preparation and Packaging
    • Chatper 12: Preparation and Packaging learning Objectives
    • Chapter 12: Preparation and Packaging Presentation
    • How to Wrap a Surgical Tray
    • Instrument handout 12
    • Chatper 12: Preparation and Packaging Review Quiz
    • Progress Test Three
    • Copy of Chapter 12 printouts
  • 14
    Chapter 13 Point-of-Use Disinfection & Sterilization
    • Chapter 13: Point-of-Use Disinfection & Sterilization Learning Objectives
    • Chapter 13 Point of Use Processing Presentation
    • IUSS Sterilization
    • Chapter 13: Point-of-Use Disinfection & Sterilization Practice Exercises
    • Chapter 13: Point-of-Use Disinfection & Sterilization Review Quiz
    • Instrument handout 13
    • Chapter 13: Point-of-Use Disinfection & Sterilization
    • Chapter 13 Homework (Print Out)
    • Chapter 13 Quiz (Print Out)
  • 15
    Chapter 14 High-Temperature Sterilization
    • Chapter 14: High-Temperature Sterilization Presentation
    • Chapter 14: High-Temperature Sterilization Learning Objectives
    • Instrument handout 14
    • Chapter 14: High-Temperature Sterilization Practice Exercises
    • Steam Sterilization Load Cooling
    • Check Temperature of Sterilized Steam Items
    • Chapter 14: High-Temperature Sterilization Review Quiz
    • Chapter 14 Homework (Print Out)
    • Chapter 14 Quiz (Print Out)
  • 16
    Chapter 15 Low Temperature Sterilization
    • Chapter 15: Low Temperature Sterilization Learning Objectives
    • Chapter 15: Low-Temperature Sterilization Presentation
    • Chapter 15: Low Temperature Sterilization Review Quiz
    • Instrument handout 15
    • Vpro Sterilization Process
    • Chapter 15 Homework (Print Out)
    • Chapter 15 Quiz (Print Out)
  • 17
    Chapter 16 Sterile Storage and Transport
    • Chapter 16: Sterile Storage and Transport Presentation
    • Instrument handout 16
    • Sterile Storage
    • Chapter 16: Sterile Storage and Transport Review Quiz
    • Chapter 16 Homework (Print Out)
    • Chapter 16 Quiz (Print Out)
    • Progress Test Four
    • progress test 4 print out
  • 18
    Chapter 17 Monitoring and Recordkeeping for Sterile Processing
    • Chapter 17: Monitoring and Recordkeeping for Sterile Processing Presentation
    • Instrument handout 17
    • PCD Monitoring
    • Chapter 17: Monitoring and Recordkeeping for Sterile Processing Review Quiz
    • Chapter 17 Homework (Print Out)
    • Chapter 17 Quiz (Print Out)
  • 19
    Chapter 18 Quality Production and Monitoring
    • Chapter 18: Quality Production and Monitoring Presentation
    • Instrument handout 18
    • Introduction to LEAN Six Sigma in 3
    • Chapter 18: Quality Production and Monitoring Quiz
    • Chapter 18 Homework (Print Out)
    • Chapter 18 Quiz (Print Out)
  • 20
    Chapter 19 Supply Chain Management Within the Sterile Processing Department
    • Chapter 19: Supply Chain Management Within the Sterile Processing Department presentation
    • Chapter 19: Managing Inventory within the Central Service Department Review Quiz
    • Instrument handout 19
    • Chapter 19 Quiz (Print Out)
    • Chapter 19 Homework (Print Out)
  • 21
    Chapter 20 The Role of Central Service in Ancillary Department Support
    • Chapter 20: The Role of Information Technology Sterile Processing Presentation
    • Instrument handout 20
    • Chapter 20: The Role of Information Technology Sterile Processing Review Quiz
    • Copy of Progress Test Five
    • Progress Test 5 (print out)
    • Chapter 20 Homework (Print Out)
    • Chapter 20 Quiz (Print Out)
  • 22
    Chapter 21 The Role of Information Technology in Central Service
    • Chapter 21: The Role of Information Technology in Central Service Presentation
    • Instrument handout 21
    • Chapter 21: The Role of Information Technology in Central Service Review Quiz
    • Chapter 21 Homework (Print Out)
    • Chapter 21 Quiz (Print Out)
  • 23
    Chapter 22 Safety for Sterile Processing
    • Chapter 22: Safety for Sterile Processing Presentation
    • Instrument handout 22
    • Chapter 22: Safety for Sterile Processing Service Review Quiz
    • Chapter 22 Homework (Print Out)
    • Chapter 22 Quiz (Print Out)
  • 24
    Chapter 23 Effective Communication and Human Relations Skills
    • Chapter 23: Effective Communication and Human Relations Skills Presentation
    • Instrument handout 23
    • Chapter 23: Effective Communication and Human Relations Skills Review Quiz
    • Chapter 23 Homework (Print Out)
    • Chapter 23 Quiz (Print Out)
  • 25
    Chapter 24: Personal and Professional Development for Sterile Processing
    • Copy of CHAPTER 24 professional development presentation
    • Chapter 24: Personal and Professional Development for Central Services Review Quiz
    • Chapter 24 Homework (Print Out)
    • Chapter 24 Quiz (Print Out)
  • 26
    Final Exam
    • Progress Test Six
    • progress exam 6