Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Idaho

Proper preparation is vital for prospective sterile processing technicians in Idaho. Even though the profession is generally friendly to future professionals, candidates still need to ensure that they understand what to expect as early as possible.

Below, we provide a detailed analysis of the best approach to adopt when entering into the sterile processing technician discipline in Idaho. We analyze the foundational requirements, educational alternatives, including fast-tracked and longer programs, and the steps required for licensing and certification.

To wrap up, we also take a look at the top training programs to consider, as well as the average annual salary possibilities.

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Idaho

All of the considerations below are needed to become a successful sterile processing technician in Idaho.

Academic Education

Idaho community colleges and technical schools offer notable sterile processing technician programs that teach students key skills in the classroom. Some of these programs also have laboratories for practical training.

Of course, not everybody would like to commit full-time to a campus-based program. Those who fall into this category may go for part-time options or online programs.

We analyze some of the best institutions for these programs in an upcoming section.

Internships and Externships

At an academic institution, students learn theoretical principles. However, only through internships and externships can they cultivate their skills in a real work environment.

Such training arrangements are also helpful for job placement.

Job Placement

Sterile processing technicians who have completed a training program and are confident enough in their skills can secure employment in a suitable work environment. They can work in hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and virtually any establishment that uses medical instruments.

Professional Credentials & Career Acceleration

Professional credentials make it easier to secure employment and advance your career as a sterile processing technician in Idaho. The next section explores this consideration further.

For career advancement, sterile processing technicians can pursue advanced education leading to positions as sterile processing supervisors, surgical technologists, and surgical technicians, among others.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• How to become a medical biller and coder in Idaho

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Individuals in Idaho who have completed a sterile processing technician program or have 400 hours of work experience, or 6 months of work experience, can pursue certification. This is not compulsory, but it is crucial not to get left behind.

The Healthcare Sterile Processing Association offers the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCS) credential, the most popular in the field. This credential is recognized nationwide and can open doors to career opportunities.

Individuals must have completed a training program or have 400 hours of work experience to qualify. They will also be expected to achieve a passing score in a professional certification exam.

Sterile processing technicians in Idaho are not required to be licensed.

Top Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Idaho

The programs below are notable for comprehensive sterile processing education in Idaho.

Explore Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Idaho by city:

• Sterile processing technician schools in Boise

Salary & Career Outlook

Several factors can influence the annual average salary of a sterile processing technician in Idaho. It is common, for example, that candidates with longer time on the job earn more than those who are just starting.

A professional’s establishment of employment, specialty, credentials, and location can also play a role. Sorting only by location, Coeur d’Alene and Ketchum have the highest salary averages for sterile processing technicians in Idaho.

Those who work here earn an average annual salary of $83,259 and $69,523, respectively. In Twin Falls and Boise, the averages are also significant at $68,700 and $65,861 per year.

Without focusing on a single condition, sterile processing technicians in Idaho earn an annual average salary of $93,196 in the top 10%, $54,394 in the bottom 10%, and $71,199 at the median, according to Indeed.