How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in New Hampshire (Certification Programs & Salary Guide)

A sterile processing technician (SPT) is a career that is vital to any medical facility.

While it’s not as complex as being a surgeon, SPTs have an important role in the operating room and other areas of a clinic.

They spend their day sterilizing tools, preparing equipment, and ensuring that patients are safe.

Those located in New Hampshire will want to know the steps they will need to take to become a sterile processing technician.

Steps to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in New Hampshire

New Hampshire is one of the states that doesn’t mandate any official certificate to work as an SPT.

Most states don’t require any formal training but do require that you learn on the job.

That said, medical facilities often want to see their applicants be certified by an accredited program.

The reason for this is that it shows competency and ensures patient safety.

Step 1: Meet Minimum Requirements

The first step to becoming an SPT in New Hampshire is to meet the minimum requirements.

Many medical facilities won’t employ anyone under the age of 18.

So, that is the first requirement.

Secondly, applicants must either have a high school diploma or a GED.

Those who don’t will be automatically rejected.

Step 2: Attend an Accredited Program or Get Training

Since there is no mandatory law stating that one has to have a certificate to work as an SPT, most individuals tend to get training on the job.

However, there aren’t always going to be entry-level positions.

Those interested in learning the basics should attend an accredited program certified by the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM).

These courses will meet the national standard and ensure that you learn everything you need to do the job properly.

Step 3 (optional): Get a Similar Certificate

If there aren’t any local SPT programs, then a good alternative is to either take an accredited program online or get a similar certificate.

Several similar certificates meet the standard of an SPT program.

The main two that are often identical are the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) and the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT).

Each of these certificates follows a similar learning path to an SPT program.

However, they may also cover additional topics and go more in-depth.

So, while they aren’t necessary, they can be a good way to show employers that you have at least learned the basics without prior experience.

Step 4: Get Trained

Another excellent way to get into the field is by getting trained.

As we’ve mentioned, entry-level positions will offer some type of formal training.

However, individuals can also do volunteering or apply for an internship.

While not common, those two methods are good for getting your foot in the door.

Step 5: Apply & Network

Since the medical field is competitive, it’s always good to network.

Once an individual has found a place they like, they can apply to work there.

Sending a strong resume with prior experience will likely be good for a majority of places.

However, some medical facilities will want to see a certificate to prove competency.

Aside from that, individuals can also network with other medical professionals to get a job.

With new facilities opening and more people advancing in the field, there will be high demand for more SPTs.

So, network online or locally to get the best chances of finding an SPT position before it’s filled.

Licensing Requirements to Become

The state of New Hampshire doesn’t require sterile processing technicians to hold an SPT certificate.

Many applicants opt to apply to entry-level jobs and get training.

However, if you’re applying in a competitive market, then adding a certificate can give you a competitive edge.

An SPT certificate or related can demonstrate a strong understanding of the field, which employers will prioritize.

Sterile Processing Technician Programs in New Hampshire

NHTI – Concord’s Community College

The NHTI – Concord’s Community College offers a local SPT program.

Students can expect to become certified in 12 months or less.

The program is also accredited by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).

The program covers a wide variety of topics, including learning about sterile processor roles, responsibilities, and skill sets.

In addition, it covers regulations, standards, and workplace safety.

Lastly, students can expect to learn procedures, and sterilization, and understand storage considerations.

Salary

A sterile processing technician in Oregon makes an average salary of $40,295.

On the low end, SPT will make $31,484.

However, those with more experience and education can make upward of $49,455.

The salary changes mainly based on location, education, and experience.

For example, those living in a large city compared to a remote area generally make more to match the cost of living.

Regional Salary