The steps to become a sterile processing technician in the state of Florida are quite straightforward and rather enjoyable. However, candidates will only be able to enjoy the journey if they already possess a robust understanding of every major aspect of the process and what to expect along the way.
Additionally, those who are well-prepared will be able to optimize their entire careers so that they can easily secure job placement and continue optimizing for career opportunities.
To help readers achieve this objective, we have comprehensively analyzed every major expectation to fulfill in an attempt to become a thriving sterile processing technician in Florida. We also explore top programs and salary projections, among other key resources.
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Florida
The following is a step-by-step analysis of how to launch a sterile processing technician career in Florida.
Step 1: Basic Education
The first step to becoming a sterile processing technician in Florida is foundational education. A high school diploma or GED equivalent, along with basic knowledge of biology and chemistry, should be enough to facilitate admission into a program.
Step 2: Training Destinations
Candidates need to consider several factors when entering the sterile processing technician discipline. The first is whether to choose formal academic education or an apprenticeship program.
This approach aims to ensure that candidates get classroom/theoretical training and practical experience. It is also common for candidates to acquire both kinds of education by combining a formal education program with an apprenticeship or an internship for work experience.
Step 3: Certification & Career Opportunities
Sterile processing technicians usually have an edge when they are certified, although this is not compulsory by law. Some certification programs require specific hours of work experience before candidates can qualify.
This is why internships and apprenticeships are always very valuable when combined with formal academic training. In the next section, we explore specific certifications to pursue.
Step 4: Employment & Continuing Education
After attaining the right level of academic and work education, candidates can seek employment and start working in a professional capacity. They can also participate in continuing education and develop leadership skills to take up managerial positions.
Other capacities that sterile processing technicians can work in with continuing education include sterile processing supervision, sterile processing technologists, surgical technicians, and licensed practical nurses.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Sterile processing technicians in Florida are expected to become certified if they want to maintain maximum credibility and employability. For this reason, the majority of professionals in the field tend to pursue certification from the Certifying Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).
Those who would like to become certified must have completed a proper program and have at least 12 months of working experience. They will then qualify for the certification examination and become certified once they pass it.
Another amazing certifying organization to consider for those who would like an alternative to the CBSPD is the International Association of Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).
Top Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Florida
The schools below offer amazing sterile processing technician education for residents of Florida.
Florida Institute of Sterile Processing
Miami, FL Campus + Online
Florida Institute of Sterile Processing delivers an in-depth sterile processing technician program that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on learning.
Tuition
$1,600 per ProgramContact
floridasterile@gmail.com
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Online, FL Online Only
Florida State College at Jacksonville provides a self-paced online sterile processing technician program designed to accommodate busy learners.
Tuition
$2,995 - $3,590 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
University of Central Florida
Online, FL Online Only
University of Central Florida offers a fully online sterile processing technician program that enables students to progress toward the Certified Registered Central Service Technician certification through an immersive and structured curriculum.
Tuition
$2,795 - $3,290 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Explore Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Florida by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
According to a survey carried out by Indeed.com, the following are the top places to work as a sterile processing technician in the state of Florida when it comes to annual average salary:
- Gainesville, with an annual average salary of $126,892;
- Fort Lauderdale, with an annual average salary of $90,129;
- West Palm Beach, with an annual average salary of $87,645; and
- Bradenton, with an annual average salary of $76,451.
The same survey also shows the annual average salary distribution of professionals in the field without focusing on any specific factor. This is broken down as follows:
- The top 10% manage an annual average salary of $85,214;
- The bottom 10% take home an annual average salary of $55,445;
- The median earners make an annual average salary of $68,736.
Naturally, experience level will also influence how much candidates manage each year. Professionals can also work on their work environment/industry of employment, specific establishment of employment, and professional credentials to increase their yearly returns.