Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Washington

Sterile processing technicians in Washington work hard every day to ensure that all instruments used in medical facilities are functional and sterile. They also ensure the establishment follows best practices and stays up to date with technological advancements.

For individuals in the state who want to start their careers on the best possible footing, understanding the requirements is crucial. However, candidates must also note some voluntary steps that they can take for professional benefits.

Below, we cover all of these considerations in detail.

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Washington

Below is a step-by-step guide to becoming a sterile processing technician in Washington.

Foundational Knowledge

Washington: Sterile processing technicians usually have a solid high school foundation in biology, medicine, and chemistry. Additionally, a high school diploma or a GED equivalent is a common requirement for most training institutions before admission can be offered.

Formal Training

Formal training for a future sterile processing technician in Washington is usually acquired at community colleges and technical schools. Students in such programs can develop a robust understanding of infection control, surgical instruments, surgical terminology, and more.

This will give them a rock-solid foundation to continue acquiring more skills, either “on the job” or through an internship at first. Depending on availability, interested individuals can also choose to go for online, self-guided programs.

Internship Placement

As with most healthcare professions, theoretical knowledge alone is usually not enough to succeed as a sterile processing technician. Students need to be able not only to practice what they have learned, but also to have utmost confidence in their ability.

This confidence is usually developed through an internship at a clinical facility. It is also possible to secure a job placement immediately upon completion of an internship.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• How to become a medical biller and coder in Washington

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Sterile processing technicians in Washington don’t need to be certified. Certification is very popular, however, because despite its optional nature, it can be very effective at facilitating career opportunities and straightforward employment.

There are several certification organizations to consider for prominent credentials in this discipline. However, the most popular with highly respected credentials include the following:

• The Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) and
• The Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).

Candidates who complete a training program can qualify for these credentialing exams. Applicants may also qualify through work experience.

The state of Washington has no licensing requirements for sterile processing technicians.

Top Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Washington

All of the institutions listed below offer outstanding training programs for aspiring sterile processing technicians in Washington.

Explore Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Washington by city:

• Sterile processing technician schools in Seattle

Salary & Career Outlook

In Washington, sterile processing technicians can earn an annual average salary of $56,267 at the beginning of their careers. In this case, they will be among the bottom 10% but they can move up quickly.

With time, better work environments, and professional credentials, candidates can be among the median earners, earning an annual average salary of $71,866, according to Indeed. They can also ultimately join the top 10%, whose average annual salary is at least $91,789.

Location is another factor to consider. The highest-paying cities for sterile processing technicians in Washington are currently Mount Vernon($78,818), Spokane ($77,679), Olympia ($76,273), and Wenatchee ($76,003).