Enrolling for SPT training is without doubt a step in the right direction for someone who wants to advance their career in the medical field. A central sterilization certification results in a win-win-win situation for the CS Tech, the healthcare facility, as well as the patient.
First, for the CSPDT training program demonstrates their commitment to this profession and the skill and knowledge required to process medical devices. Having this educational foundation is the first step towards a career ladder in a central sterile processing department. This foundation is built upon understanding basic microbiology, anatomy, terminology, decontamination, packaging, disinfection/sterilization, storage and inventory.
Once you acquire the distinction of CRCST, there are two secondary certifications, namely the Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS), which demonstrates expertise of instrumentation, and the Certified Health Leadership (CHL), which focuses on leadership skills. When you have all these three certifications, you can increase your knowledge base and make yourself more marketable within the industry.
The importance of CSS technicians having certification can be easily seen by the vast number of job descriptions that list certification as a requirement. In some healthcare facilities, certification is required before being employed. Other institutions require certification within a certain time frame after the date of hire, such as a year. Career ladders in a SPT role initially require certification which may progress to a lead technician position, and eventually to a supervisor or manager position.
A certified SPT technician an also take a lead role in a department process improvement committee either within the CSS department or on an organizational committee. They can be a peer mentor for new or existing technicians or conduct competency checks.
For more information on the benefits of enrolling for an SPT training program, visit our website at http://www.martinsoncollege.com
