Central Sterile Processing Technician

Surgical tools on table with nurse's gloved hand

Central Sterile Processing Technician

Course Code: PHM-CSTECH

The Central Sterile Processing is a dynamic and fast paced environment with work that is challenging, highly technical, complex and rewarding. The Central Sterile Processing Technician is an essential part of the surgical team and has a vital impact on the smooth operation of the many departments they provide services. Patient safety and infection preventions start with Central Sterile Processing.

Classes will include basic fundamentals, instrument identification, basic sterile processing, labs, and clinical rotations. This will introduce students to the technical skills and the primary responsibilities of a Central Sterile Technician and prepare the student for employment in a hospital, ambulatory care, and physicians’ office setting.

Completion of this class will provide advanced knowledge, skills, and hands-on practical application that will prepare the student for the workplace and the certification exam through the Certified Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or through International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM) with continued hands-on hours that can be completed post-employment. Course cost consists of tuition and supply/insurance fees. This class is limited to 12 students. It is offered in the Fall semester.

Interested in this course, but don’t see an available class that works for you? Please fill out the blue contact form at the bottom of the page and indicate which certificate you are interested in so we can add you to our contact list about upcoming sections.

Available Classes

There are currently no available classes.

Questions others are asking.

  • Professional non-skid shoes for clinicals; instructor will provide details regarding approved footwear
  • Students must wear white lab coats to all classes and clinicals
  • Students must bring own face masks. It must cover nose and mouth at all times in the buildings and classroom.
  • Students are to purchase the textbook set directly from the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA)
  • 8th Edition – Central Service Technical Manual and Workbook (online version) OR
  • 9th Edition – Sterile Processing Technical Manual & Workbook Set
  • Surgical instrument flash cards (optional)
  • 200 index cards
  1. Letter of recommendation due at registration. Email letter to the instructor.
  2. 18 years or older
  3. Picture ID (driver’s license or other official ID)
  4. Copy of high school diploma or equivalent (GED), or college transcripts are due at time of registration. Administrative staff will place copy with the registration form.
  5. Placement test (Reading and Math Skills) required. Students must email the instructor to schedule the placement test at no charge to the student. Testing will be available during business hours by appointment. Current official picture ID required at the time of the test in the Academic Support Center on either campus.
  6. Current shot record – must document on Student Health Form. Read pages 1-3. Complete pages 4-8.
    • MMR x2 or titer
    • Varicella titer or 2 Varicella injections
    • Two-step PPD/TB test current through 2022
    • TDAP booster or Tetanus documentation
    • Flu shot
    • Hepatitis B series-all 3 shots documented or 2 shots completed prior to 2021 or titer
    • Bring documentation to the instructor; instructor will provide more details in class.
  7. Background check via Castle Branch required. Background check results are submitted to the college electronically from Castle Branch. View background check instructions here.
  8. Drug testing deadline and procedure will be provided at first class session

Contact Information

Workforce Development
Brock Administration Building
New Bern Campus
252-638-7248

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