A Sterile Processing Technician (SPT) plays an important role in medicine.
An SPT ensures all medical instruments and tools are properly cleaned and sterile.
This is an essential role, as it ensures patient safety.
If you’re located in Oregon and are interested in pursuing a career as an SPT, then here is how you can become one.
Steps to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Oregon
Those who are interested in becoming a sterile processing technician in Oregon can take a few different paths.
There are a few different options, which include attending an accredited certificate program, on-the-job training, and through a related program.
So, here are the steps one can take to become a sterile processing technician in Oregon.
Step 1: Meet Minimum Education Requirements
As with any other certificate program, students applying will first need to get their high school diploma.
Alternatively, if they haven’t, then a GED will suffice.
In addition, most training programs or employers prefer that their applicants be at least 18 years of age.
This is mainly due to the job having high risks if not done correctly.
Step 2: Apply & Attend an Accredited Program
If you can’t find an entry-level sterile processing technician job, then a good alternative is to apply and attend an accredited program.
An accredited program is certified by the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM).
Programs that aren’t accredited aren’t an acceptable form of training,
Step 3: Pursue Similar Certifications
Job applicants who can’t find a sterile processing technician program or find an entry-level job can also pursue similar certificates.
Two identical certificates can suffice as sterile processing technician training, the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) and a Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT).
Both of these certificates cover the same subjects and are nearly identical in terms of training.
That said, many of the CRCST and CSPDT programs may cover additional topics.
So, while not necessary, they can be a great alternative to gaining processing knowledge.
Step 4: Get Hands-On Experience
Another method is to get hands-on experience volunteering or working as a sterile processing technician.
Many medical facilities will have entry-level possessions that will require on-the-job training.
In addition, volunteering and internships can also be a good way to gain hands-on experience and learn about the job.
Step 5: Apply
If you haven’t been able to find an entry-level position or internship, then you can apply once you’ve completed a certificate program.
The best places to find jobs are either through recruitment boards or by networking.
Asking other healthcare professionals, letting clinics know your availability, and asking are excellent ways.
In addition, your certificate program may also have opportunities once you’ve passed the certificate program.
Licensing Requirements to Become
The state of Oregon 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 Oregon
Portland Community College (PCC)
The Portland Community College is located in Portland, OR, and offers an SPT program.
The program takes one school term to complete and includes a total of 42 hours.
The SPT program is hands-on and is in a hospital setting.
Students will learn a wide range of skills, such as infection control and prevention, decontamination, microbiology, and more.
Rogue Community College
The Rogue Community College offers an online self-paced course offered by Ed2Go.
The SPT program features open enrollment and prepares you for the SPT certificate exam.
The course allows you to sit for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician certificate the HSPA provides.
The program consists of 190 course hours and takes 12 months to complete.
Students can learn at their own rate, as the program is self-paced.
The program is designed to give complete knowledge of the sterile processor role and provide procedures, guidelines, and regulations.
Students can expect tuition to be$3,290 for the course but may find it listed on sale.
If students can’t pay the full tuition upfront, students can apply for Affirm.
Affirm can help students pay as little as $136 per month for the program.
Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC)
Mt. Hood Community College is located in Gresham, OR, and offers an SPT program.
Students will attend one course that is equal to seven school credits.
This equals 60 hours of didactic instruction and 30 hours of lab instruction.
There are also 400 hours of hands-on experience by an employer necessary for those who want to sit for the IAHCSMM exam.
3 Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Oregon
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Portland Community College (PCC) | 705 N Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97217, United States |
| Rogue Community College | 101 S Bartlett St, Medford, OR 97501, United States |
| Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC) | 26000 SE Stark St, Gresham, OR 97030, USA |
Salary
A sterile processing technician in Oregon makes an average salary of $40,275.
On the low end, SPT will make $32,136.
However, those with more experience and education can make upward of $50,057.
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.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Sterile Processing Technicians in Oregon
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Albany | $39,363 |
| Astoria | $40,909 |
| Beaver | $39,403 |
| Bridgeport | $36,271 |
| Canyon City | $41,583 |
| Corvallis | $39,363 |
| Dallas | $39,640 |
| Eugene | $39,680 |
| Glendale | $39,125 |
| Independence | $39,801 |
Regional Salary
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bend-Redmond, OR | 100 | $48,030 | $23.09 | $58,850 | $42,910 |
| Corvallis, OR | 40 | $48,280 | $23.21 | $51,780 | $42,460 |
| Eugene, OR | 110 | $47,810 | $22.99 | $59,790 | $36,520 |
| Medford, OR | 80 | $47,670 | $22.92 | $60,260 | $33,910 |
| Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA | 690 | $52,210 | $25.1 | $67,940 | $36,730 |
| Salem, OR | 100 | $53,300 | $25.63 | $70,790 | $35,090 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a sterile processing technician in Oregon?
The time it takes to become an SPT in Oregon depends on several factors.
Students attending an SPT program can expect it to take six months to one year.
On the other hand, if you’re learning on -the job, then it can take only a few weeks of training.
That said, those taking a related certificate program may need to attend more schooling, which can add to the overall length of becoming an SPT.
What is the job outlook for sterile processing technicians in Oregon?
The projected outlook for SPTs in Oregon is estimated to grow by 13% over the next ten years.
This is notably higher than the national average, suggesting that it’s a good career choice.
What are the alternative programs for becoming a Sterile Processing Technician in Oregon?
Becoming a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or a Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) can also be used to work as a sterile processing technician.
In addition, applicants may also attend a trainee position while working on the job.
That said, most sterile processing technicians end up in entry-level positions with on-the-job training in Oregon.
Is a Sterile Processing Technician Certificate worth it in Oregon?
While many opt for on-the-job training, gaining certification can help your journey as a SPT.
A certificate not only proves expertise but also attests to competency.
Those wanting a competitive advantage or want to move up in the field will want to get certified.
What are the typical work hours and shifts for sterile processing technicians in Oregon?
The typical work hours will depend on what your availability is.
In general, SPTs are constantly on the scene to wash and manage medical equipment.
That means that you can have the morning, day, or night shift.
In some cases, there may even be places that offer 12-hour shifts.
Ultimately, the hours vary, but in general, they don’t go beyond 40 hours total in a week.
