Why Study Central Sterile Processing?
This course is designed to introduce the primary responsibilities of a central sterile technician. The course includes practical applications of learned concepts and procedures. Topics include preparation, storage, distribution of instruments, supplies and equipment, quality assurance and inventory management. Upon completion, students should be able to apply the principles of sterilization/disinfection in the workplace, as well as the principles of distribution of instruments/supplies/equipment.
$38,014
Average salary in the Triad region.
$41,475
National median.
5.5 %
Projected job growth in the Triad region over five years (2023-2028)
Career Tracks
• Sterile Processing Technician
• Supervisor
• Instrument Specialist
Contact Heather Carter (hcarter@forsythtech.edu / 336.734.7912) for more information.
Program Summary
Would you like to work in an exciting field that supports the safety and care of surgical patients? Hospitals and outpatient surgery centers need a team to reprocess the complex surgical instrumentation, so it is sterile and ready for the next patient. This course will cover anatomy, microbiology and infection prevention principles related to the profession. You will learn processes in the areas of decontamination, inspection/preparation of items to be sterilized, sterilization methods, and storage/distribution in preparation for work and the nationwide certification exams. This program includes lectures with a virtual component, in-person lab, and clinical externship at a healthcare facility.
High School diploma or equivalent.
TBD. We anticipate the next class beginning in late Spring / early Summer 2025
- Decontaminate soiled surgical instruments and equipment
- Inspect, inventory, and prepare items for sterilization
- Operate sterilizers and disinfection equipment
- Verify and document sterilization processes
- Maintain sterile storage and inventory
- Provide needed instrument sets and customer service to surgical staff
Medical terminology, anatomy, microbiology, infection prevention, decontamination, inspection, sterile packaging, sterilization methods, monitoring and recordkeeping, sterile storage & distribution, quality monitoring, customer service and job preparedness skills.
- Accuracy
- Detail-oriented
- Customer service skills
- Integrity
- Communication skills
- Patient safety oriented
- Punctual and dependable Teamwork
- Reliable follow-through
Visit us today!
Forsyth Tech is located at 2100 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem, NC 27103