The role of sterile processing technicians in the medical field is often overlooked… but it’s essential in ensuring that the healthcare environment is safe for patients and healthcare workers alike.
These skilled professionals work behind the scenes to sterilize and maintain all the equipment and instruments used in surgeries and procedures.
Sterile processing technicians play a critical role in maintaining a healthy and safe workplace (whether it’s at a hospital or a surgery center.)
The importance of sterile processing?
Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) in the United States result in significant financial costs.
The direct medical expenses associated with these infections are estimated to be at least $28.4 billion annually.
Additionally…HAIs also contribute to an extra $12.4 billion in costs to society due to premature deaths and decreased productivity.
If you’re considering a career in healthcare, this field might be an excellent fit for you.
In this blog, we’ll explore reasons why a career as a sterile processing technician could be an ideal choice.
But first…
The responsibilities of sterile processing technicians?
As mentioned earlier…sterile processing technicians are responsible for ensuring that medical equipment and instruments are properly cleaned, sterilized, and maintained.
Sterile processing technicians’ jobs include:
Cleaning and decontamination of medical equipment
This process involves removing any biological debris, such as blood or tissue, from the equipment before it can be sterilized. This step is crucial to ensuring that the equipment is sterilized effectively.
Sterilization of medical equipment
After the cleaning and decontamination process, the next step is to sterilize the medical equipment and instruments. Sterilization kills all microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, that could potentially cause an infection.
Assembly of medical equipment
Once the medical equipment and instruments are sterilized, it’s the job of the sterile processing technician to assemble them correctly.
Maintenance and repairs of equipment
They need to be familiar with the various tools and machines used in the healthcare industry, as well as know how to troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
Record keeping and inventory management
They need to keep detailed records of all equipment and instruments that have been sterilized, including the date of sterilization and expiration date.
Additionally, they need to ensure that there is an adequate supply of sterile equipment and instruments available at all times.
Adherence to safety regulations and guidelines
Lastly, sterile processing technicians must adhere to strict safety regulations and guidelines to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare workers.
Reasons to become a sterile processing technician
1. Job security and growth opportunities
As such, the job outlook for this field is excellent, AND there will be plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement.
2. Competitive salary and benefits
Sterile processing technicians are in high demand, which means that they can command a competitive salary and benefits package.
3. Flexible work schedules
Many healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and surgery centers, operate around the clock, which means that sterile processing technicians may have the option to work flexible hours.
4. Career advancement opportunities
Sterile processing technicians can advance their careers by pursuing more training and certifications.
This can lead to opportunities for advancement into supervisory or managerial roles.
5. Hands-on work environment
If you enjoy working with your hands and taking pride in your work, becoming a technician might be an excellent choice.
This career involves working with medical equipment and instruments, and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that your work is critical in preventing infections and keeping patients safe.
6. Making a difference in patient care
As a sterile processing technician, you’ll play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of patients and healthcare workers.
By properly cleaning, sterilizing, and maintaining medical equipment and instruments, you’ll be contributing to the overall quality of patient care.
Bottom line
So if you’re passionate about healthcare and want to contribute to the industry in a meaningful way, consider becoming a sterile processing technician.
Additionally, with the demand for this career field expected to grow in the coming years, there’s never been a better time to start your journey towards a fulfilling and rewarding career.
Whether you’re just starting out or are looking for a change, a career as a technician can provide you with the stability and fulfillment you need.
