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Sterile Processing

Sterile Processing

Degree Type: Certificate, CER
Pathway: Health Sciences
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why choose Sterile Processing at ppsc? 

The Sterile Processing Technology program is designed to prepare you for a crucial role in healthcare environments, focusing on the cleaning, sterilization, and assembly of surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies. You will receive comprehensive training in critical areas such as sterilization techniques, infection control, decontamination, surgical instrumentation processing, storage and inventory management, and essential documentation and record maintenance skills. Students enrolled in the Sterile Processing Technology program can pursue Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) industry certification.

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Our Sterile Processing Technology Certificate Program

Sterile Processing Technicians are essential to maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and efficiency in healthcare environments, particularly in surgical operations and patient care. 

Our comprehensive program equips you with the essential knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to excel in this specialized area. Throughout the program you will gain expertise in: 
  • Sterilization Techniques and Infection Control: Learn the most effective methods for decontaminating surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies.
  • Surgical Instrument Processing: Master the preparation, packaging, and management of surgical tools to ensure their safety for patient care.
  • Storage and Inventory Management: Develop skills to efficiently manage and maintain medical supplies and equipment.
  • Documentation and Record Maintenance: Understand the importance of accurate record-keeping for sterilization cycles, maintenance procedures, and inventory levels

 

Hands-On Learning and Industry Certification

Real-World Experience
The program includes a 400-hour internship to solidify your learning and prepare you for immediate entry into the workforce. This hands-on experience in a clinical setting allows you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life situations, making you workforce-ready from day one.

Achieve Industry Certification
Upon completing the program, you will be prepared to take the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification exam, signifying your commitment and expertise in the field.

Program Details
  • Prerequisites: No academic prerequisites are required; however, students must complete a drug screen, background check, and provide proof of required clinical vaccinations at least two weeks prior to the semester start.
  • Duration: All required courses must be completed within one semester.
  • Credit Hours: 18 total credit hours.
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Certification for Current Technicians

If you are already a Sterile Processing Technician looking to get certified, this program is also for you. Your prior experience is highly valued, and this program offers an opportunity to enhance your credentials through certification.

Please contact Antoinette Trujillo-Fergus for more information on how we can accommodate your experience and expedite your certification process.

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Important Enrollment Requirements

Upon enrollment, students must complete a background check and drug screening ordered through CastleBranch. Directions for completing this process will be sent upon enrollment verification. 

Please note that students are required to meet the background check requirements outlined by the Colorado Community College System (CCCS) to ensure eligibility for clinical placements. The specific disqualifying offenses can be found in the CCCS SP 4-10c Student Background Checks policy.

Immunization and Health Requirements:
Students must submit proof of the following immunizations (including but not limited to):
  • TB Test: Annually
  • Tdap: Every 10 years
  • Hepatitis B: 2 or 3 doses depending on the vaccine; titer required if there is no series documentation.
  • MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): 2 doses; titer if there is no documentation
  • Varicella (Chickenpox): 2 doses; titer if there is no documentation
  • Flu: Annually (2024-2025 flu series required by Oct 15)
  • COVID-19 Vaccine: Completed series required (boosters not required)
  • BLS/CPR (AHA Provider Level): Every 2 years
  • Background Check and Drug Test: Upon acceptance into the program (must redo if readmitted)
Note: Immunization requirements can change with or without notice, pending clinical affiliation agreements.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to make a significant impact in healthcare? Our program is designed to equip you with entry-level skills and foundational knowledge, ensuring you're prepared to contribute effectively to the healthcare environment from day one. If you're motivated to play a crucial role in maintaining health and safety standards in medical settings, we encourage you to take the next step.

To enroll, please submit the required classes for registration with signature from Antionette Trujillo-Fergus.

Contact Antionette Trujillo-Fergus to learn more about the Sterile Processing Technology Certification program. I’m here to answer any questions and support you on your journey to becoming an indispensable part of the healthcare team.

antoinette.trujillofergus@pikespeak.edu
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Explore Additional Resources

Surgical Technology Program Information PPSC Academic Catalog
Getting Started with PPSC Transfer Credits in to PPSC

 

PPSC Tuition and Fees CCCS SP 4-10c – Student Background Checks
Apply to PPSC PPSC Financial Aid

need more information?

Contact Surgical Technology

Sterile Processing Faculty Contact

Program Director - Antoinette Trujillo, BS, CST, CRCST
antoinette.trujillo@pikespeak.edu 

Connect with Admissions

We are here to help you get started and can answer your questions about going to college and becoming a student at Pikes Peak State College

Admissions@pikespeak.edu
719-502-2000