About the Career

A sterile processing technician perform a variety of tasks in the operating room setting including instrument and equipment processing and incorporating infection control procedures.

Preparation of sterile instrument for surgery.

Career Outlook

Employment opportunities are found in the hospital setting. The average hourly wage for a Medical Equipment Preparer (Sterile Processing Technician) is $17.42. Between 2016-2026, the need for these individuals is expected to grow up to 14 percent (Source: O*NET online).

About the Program

Through hands-on labs and classes, this program trains students to work as sterile processing technicians, a rapidly growing branch of the health care field. Sterile Processing Techs perform a variety of tasks in the operating room setting including instrument and equipment processing and incorporating infection control procedures.

Qualities for Success

Critical thinking, monitoring/assessing performance of yourself and others for continuous quality improvement, active listening and analytical ability are all attributes and requirements of a sterile processing technician.

How to Begin

An application is required prior to registration: Sterile Processing Technician Student Requirements

Applicants need a high school diploma or GED. Consider contacting the ABE office if you do not meet the diploma requirement at 409-933-8294.

Clinical sites require participants to have updated immunizations, background checks, drug screens and verified ID. This cost is paid by the program applicant.

Financial aid is available for students who qualify.

Students applying for the Sterile Processing Tech program are required to submit a background check through Pre-Check, as well as carry health insurance and have a current medical history form on file. Please contact 409-933-8645 for more information.

Course completion requirements

You will be required to attend 90 percent of all scheduled classes, all clinical hours as assigned and maintain an 80 percent or better or coursework.

Course # Title Hrs
HPRS 1006 Essential of Medical Terminology 24
HPRS 1091 Special Topics in Health Professions and Related Science: Sterile Processing I 89
HPRS 1091 Special Topics in Health Professions and Related Science: Sterile Processing II 40

Notice to Students Regarding Licensing

Effective September 1, 2017, HB 1508 amends the Texas Occupations Code Section 53 that requires education providers to notify potential or enrolled students that a criminal history may make them ineligible for an occupational license upon program completion. NOTE: Criminal history checks are required for clinical experience purposes.

Should you wish to request a review of the impact of criminal history on your potential licensure prior to or during your quest for a degree, you can visit this link and request a “Criminal History Evaluation”: https://www.precheck.com/

This information is being provided to all persons who apply or enroll in the program, with notice of the requirements as described above, regardless of whether or not the person has been convicted of a criminal offense. Additionally, HB 1508 authorizes licensing agencies to require reimbursements when a student fails to receive the required notice.