Program Overview

Major ID: 370C

Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring
Day cohort classes offered as well as afternoon/ evening cohorts. Day and afternoon/evening cohort start dates alternate every other semester. For more information, please consult with an academic advisor.

The Saint Paul College Sterile Processing certificate is a 30-credit program that prepares graduates to work in medical facilities that prepare surgical instruments, supplies and equipment necessary for healthcare. This program includes a broad introduction to health sciences, as well as medical terminology, communication, and computers. The program curriculum includes instruction in decontamination processes, preparation, packaging, sterilization and sterile storage of surgical instrumentation and supplies.

Students who successfully complete the certificate program are prepared for entry-level employment in a sterile processing position. Graduates are eligible to take the certification examination following 400 hours of professional employment, and are eligible to apply to the AAS Surgical Technology Program at Saint Paul College.

Career Opportunities

The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced. The work is challenging, highly technical, and complex. The performance of this vital role has a major impact on the smooth operation of the many departments to which it provides products and services. Employment opportunities may be within hospitals, outpatient centers, and instrument processing centers. Wage information is available from the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.

Program Outcomes

1. To prepare competent entry-level sterile processors in the cognitive (knowledge) psycho motor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains.
2. Communicate effectively and professionally with all members of a diverse sterile processing team.
3. Apply logical and critical thinking skills as it relates to sterile processing job duties.
4. Demonstrate safe handling of surgical instrumentation, equipment and supplies used in surgical patient care.
5. Identify surgical instrumentation, supplies, and equipment used in surgical patient care.
6. Use appropriate medical technology knowledge related to the role of the sterile processor.
7. Apply computer skills required in sterile processing.
8. Describe the cycle of sterilization, as it relates to sterile processing.
9. Demonstrate proficiency with aseptic technique as it relates to sterile processing.

Program Faculty 

Viki Viertel
viki.viertel@saintpaul.edu

Additional Program Materials 

Students should expect to spend approximately $135 for supplies. This cost is beyond the cost of tuition and fees and subject to change.

Prerequisites/Admission Guidelines:

1. An application is required to register for SURG 14XX courses.
2. A cumulative 2.5 GPA or above is required in general/prerequisite Sterile Processing program courses in order to register for SURG 14XX courses.
3. Students with all prerequisites completed at the time of the application will be given priority.
4. Remaining spots in the Sterile Processing courses will be granted based on remaining prerequisites to be completed at the time of application.
5. The Sterile Processing Admissions Committee will review each application on the basis of overall academic ability, GPA of course prerequisites, completion of minimum entry requirements and meeting the above requirements. Students will be notified by their Saint Paul College emails as indicated on the Sterile Processing Course Application.
6. Must complete vaccination requirements directed by faculty at required program orientation session.
7. Mandatory attendance of the first class of each course. 
8. Complete Basic Life Support for Healthcare provider (BLS) CPR prior to starting SURG 24XX courses.
9. Must pass MN Department of Health and Human Services Background study at the start of the SURG 24XX courses.