Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Ohio

Sterile processing technicians are professionals with a comprehensive knowledge of surgical equipment and tools, as well as the techniques to achieve the desired level of sterility, making these tools and equipment as safe as possible. Ohio residents can enter this profession to start a successful career in the medical industry and continue to grow with more advanced skills as they progress.

To do so, they need to understand the general steps and requirements involved in the process. Luckily, we discuss all of these in extensive detail below.

The guide also covers annual average salary brackets for sterile processing technicians in Ohio, as well as the steps that can be taken to improve yearly returns in the profession.

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Ohio

Below is a step-by-step analysis of how to become a sterile processing technician in Ohio.

Basic Requirements

The basic requirements to become a sterile processing technician in Ohio typically involve fundamental skills such as collaboration, communication, and attention to detail. Some training institutions and specific employers may also prioritize candidates who have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

Proper Training

All sterile processing technicians must possess a solid foundational knowledge of theoretical principles and be able to apply this knowledge in real-world settings.

This is why a typical training process has to include both classroom and practical education.

• Classroom Education—Classroom education is crucial in helping candidates develop a solid theoretical understanding of principles in sterile processing technology. This kind of education can be obtained on campus or online.

We explore some of the top training programs to consider in an upcoming list.

• Practical Education: Practical education helps candidates improve upon their theoretical training to develop real-world proficiency. Some certification organizations also require work experience before credentials can be obtained.

Fresh sterile processing technicians tend to build practical proficiency through internships and/or apprenticeship arrangements.

Employment & Advanced Roles

Certified and properly trained sterile processing technicians usually enjoy a straightforward path to employment. Once they start working in a basic capacity, candidates can improve their responsibilities by participating in continuing education.

With time, sterile processing technicians can take on more advanced duties, such as those of sterile processing technologists, sterile processing supervisors, and surgical technologists.

Explore trades with similar paths:

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

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) offers professional certification for sterile processing technicians in Ohio. This credential is highly regarded in the industry and is available to those who have completed 400 hours of practical experience and formal education. If someone completes an accredited program, that requirement is reduced or waived.

Candidates must pass a certification examination that includes questions on sterilization, disinfection, storage, and distribution, among other topics.

Those who prefer an alternative may consider the credentials offered by the Certifying Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD). Candidates must have at least 6 months of experience with academic education or 12 months of full-time experience to qualify for the exam.

Top Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Ohio

Candidates may consider any of the programs below for comprehensive training as a sterile processing technician in Ohio.

Explore Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Ohio by city:

• Sterile processing technician schools in Columbus

Salary & Career Outlook

The annual average salary of a sterile processing technician in Ohio can range from $55,185 on the lower end to $89,410 on the upper end. However, the majority of professionals in the state will fall neither in the bottom category nor the top category.

They will fall into the median-earning category, where the average annual salary is around $70,243, which aligns with the national average.

Professionals typically improve their yearly returns by focusing on factors like location, employer, work environment, and experience. Those who wish to improve their career prospects by optimizing their location may consider working in Toledo, which boasts an annual average salary of $138,808 for sterile processing technicians—the highest in the state.

Cleveland, with an annual average salary of $80,088, and Parma, with an annual average salary of $74,856, are also notable.