Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Kansas

Kansas is an excellent state for working as a healthcare professional. Although there are several prominent healthcare disciplines in the state, individuals who don’t want to spend years in training can choose a field such as sterile processing.

Sterile processing technicians ensure that medical instruments are safe and ready to use. They do so through inventory management, decontamination, and infection control.

The following guide explores how individuals and Kansas can develop the skills needed to start successful careers as sterile processing technicians. It also provides additional resources, including top training programs to consider and the annual average salary categories most professionals fall into.

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Kansas

The following steps are required to launch a career as a sterile processing technician in Kansas.

Choosing a Training Program

There are several excellent training programs in Kansas for prospective sterile processing technicians. What’s more, all of these programs offer unique offerings.

Some programs are notable for their flexibility and convenience, allowing students to learn from home in a self-guided manner. Some offer rigorous training in person.

Additionally, the award in sight also differs. Some programs offer certificates and diplomas, while others lead to associate degrees. Some only focus on preparing students for certification.

We examine specific options in the next section.

Finishing a Training Program

Sterile processing technician programs have several objectives. Only candidates who have achieved these objectives can claim to have finished their programs.

Among the objectives are understanding foundational topics, being ready for certification, and identifying career opportunities. More importantly, students must also have both theoretical and real-world expertise.

For real-world experience as a sterile processing technician, an internship is crucial.

Professional Credentials & Career Acceleration

Professional credentials make it easier to secure employment as a sterile processing technician. However, the benefits of having one extend beyond this.

It can also lead to career acceleration, thanks to emphasis on continuing education. By improving their skills, professionals can explore and leverage related disciplines, including sterile processing supervisor, surgical technician and technologist, licensed practical nurse, and registered nurse roles.

Explore trades with similar Paths:

• Learn how to become a medical biller and coder in Kansas

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The Healthcare Sterile Processing Association is the most popular provider of certification credentials for sterile processing technicians in Kansas. The association offers a credential recognized nationwide and respected by employers.

While certification is technically optional, it is absolutely crucial for professional development and career growth. It offers professionals the opportunity to network and access career resources.

Of course, candidates must pass a certification exam before they can be credentialed. They must also meet the credentials requirements, which typically involve completing a training program with a score of at least 70%.

Some certification organizations, such as the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution, allow candidates to obtain certification with only 400 hours of work experience.

Top Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Kansas

Kansas residents can start successful careers as sterile processing technicians by attending any of the institutions listed below.

Explore Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Kansas by city:

• Sterile processing technician schools in Wichita

Salary & Career Outlook

The most common salary category for sterile processing technicians in Kansas is the median-earning category. Those in this bracket earn an average annual salary of $71,073 according to Indeed.

For those who are not yet earning this much, it is more common to fall among the bottom 10%, with an average annual salary of $62,506. However, in the highest-paying category, professionals in the field can end the year with an average income of up to $80,815.

Factors that move candidates from lower to higher earning categories include experience, professional credentials, and work environment. Location can also be quite significant.

Shawnee Mission has the highest average in the state, at around $84,593 per year. With annual average salaries of $79,325 and $71,331, respectively, Olathe and Kansas City rank second and third.