STE&M Training Course Outline
Sterile Technician Excellence & Mastery
Course Description:
This course will include both clinical and didactic training to provide a unique approach to Sterile Processing education. Through a combination of hands-on training and in-class lectures, students will receive a comprehensive overview of the entirety of the scope and responsibilities of the Sterile Processing Technician. Training will include 72 didactic hours and 168 laboratory hours for 240 hours total and will be completed in 60 training days spread over 13 weeks.
Course Objective:
At the completion of this course, the Sterile Processing Technician will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to successfully function independently in all areas of the sterile processing department. This includes sterilization, decontamination, prep/pack, and sterile storage. The SPD tech will also be prepared to sit for and pass the IAHCSMM CRCST certification test.
Areas of Study
Decontamination
Decontamination is the first step in reprocesssing surgical instruments. Students will learn to sort, disassemble, and clean surgical instrumentation according to industry standard
Preparation and Packaging
Once clean, each instrument must be fully inspected, assembled, and packaged. Instruments from a wide variety of surgical specialties will be taught as well as the use of specialized techniques to test instruments and verify cleanliness
Sterilization Process
Students will receive in-depth comprehensive training and hands on experience for both low temperature and steam sterilization. The course will thoroughly cover the technology and microbiology related to the sterilization process as well as all quality assurance measures and validation testing requirements
Sterile Storage & Inventory Management
Tracking, distribution, and storage of sterile supplies and instrumentation is vital to ensure the correct surgical supplies and instrumentation are available at a moments notice
Documentation & Record Maintenance
Documentation of processes, environmental conditions, and sterilization parameters are paramount to ensure patient safety. Students will learn to appropriately document quality assurance testing and all other record keeping required by the FDA, CDC, AAMI, and other industry regulators