Sterile Processing Technician Training Curriculum
The Sterile Processing Technician Training Curriculum offers real-world training developed by professional educators and sterile processing experts. Lessons start with the basics of terminology and techniques before focusing on modern technologies, quality assurance, inventory management, and central service communications as you prepare for a career in one of the most important roles for an allied health professional.
Sterile Processing Orientation
Sterile Processing Orientation
In this course, you’ll examine the goals and values of Ashworth College, time management, creating a realistic weekly and monthly study schedule, the nature and purpose of assessments, how to study effectively to prepare for and take an online examination, and developing the skill sets necessary for success in the twenty-first century. You’ll also learn about the various allied health careers that are available.
By the end of this course, you'll be able to do the following:
Lesson Group 1: Building Blocks of Sterile Processing
This course will begin by exploring medical terminology, which requires an understanding of anatomy and physiology. You’ll begin to identify microorganisms, learning the role microbiology plays as part of the central services department. This course will conclude with an overview of how math principles and Microsoft Office programs factor into sterile processing.
By the end of this course, you'll be able to do the following:
Connect medical terminology with medical operational systems.
Develop a working knowledge of anatomy and physiology.
Understand microbiology and the safety guidelines for dealing with microorganisms.
Review math principles and Microsoft applications used with sterile processing.
Lesson Group 2: Sterile Processing Technology, Part 1
In this course, you’ll learn about a number of techniques needed to protect yourself and the patient from various pathogens. After completing this lesson group, you’ll find that you’ll be able to assist in providing the best care imaginable to both healthy and sick patients by applying these techniques.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:
- Explore the personnel and procedures common to the sterile processing department.
- Utilize the guidelines and processes for aseptic technique to prevent infections.
- Uphold the importance of sterility through cleaning, decontamination, and disinfection.
- Identify basic and complex surgical instruments.
Lesson Group 3: Sterile Processing Technology, Part 2
In this course, you’ll explore the processes that allow surgical instruments and equipment to be used on patients. You’ll also discover various methods to store and keep surgical instruments and medical devices protected until they’re ready for use. This is a fundamental lesson in regard to becoming proficient in various processes used to prepare, protect, store, and transport medical devices.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to do the following:
- Master procedures for the assembly, packaging, sterilization, and storage of medical devices.
- Explore how recordkeeping results in quality assurance and effective inventory management.
- Examine how safe practices used by central processing technicians benefit other departments and personnel.
- Understand how risk is managed through communication, personal growth, and professional development.
Sterile Processing Program Description
The Sterile Processing certificate program is designed to provide you with knowledge of the sterile processing work done by central service technicians, which includes an understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and microbiology and follows principles of aseptic technique, process sterilization, quality assurance, risk management, and professional development.
Sterile Processing Program Objectives
After completing the Sterile Processing program, students will be able to do the following:
Recognize the fundamental practices and procedures of aseptic technique.
Identify common pathogens found in the medical setting and the precautionary measures healthcare workers take to minimize the risk of contracting diseases.
Identify HIPAA privacy rules and regulations and patient information commonly maintained by a healthcare facility.
Recognize the duties and requirements of the sterile processing technician in the healthcare setting.
Identify basic concepts of anatomy, physiology, microbiology, microorganisms, and medical terminology related to the duties of sterile processing technicians.
Identify industry regulations and best practice standards common in the sterile processing field and the organizations responsible for setting the regulations and standards.
Identify common and complex surgical instruments, industry approved practices for decontamination and sterilization of medical supplies and equipment, and the proper ways to transport equipment.
Identify procedures for effective inventory control and tracking of instruments, equipment, and supplies.
Recognize quality assurance practices and workplace safety procedures.
Identify the importance of teamwork, workplace communication, and customer relations in the sterile processing setting.
Identify basic concepts of technology, writing, communication, and math skills used in the workplace.
Ashworth College's
API Program Name Career Diploma program helps you develop the confidence you need to reach for your career goals because we integrate job search prep into your studies. With the online tools at the Ashworth College Central Network, you’ll get step-by-step guidance as you create polished, professional resumes and letters. After you graduate, you’ll keep your Ashworth College Central Network account so you can revisit the tools any time you need to make a good impression on a potential employer. Learn more about it at the
Career Services page.
