Central Sterile Processing Certificate

The Central Sterile Processing curriculum is designed to prepare individuals for the field of Sterile Processing and Central Service Supply.

Students will develop skills necessary to properly disinfect, prepare process, store, and issue both sterile and nonsterile supplies and equipment for patient care. Also, students will learn to operate sterilizing units and monitor effectiveness of the sterilization process.

Graduates will be eligible to take the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution, Inc. “Sterile Processing and Distribution (SPD) Technician Exam”, earning the title of Central Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT). Employment opportunities include surgery centers, central sterile processing departments in hospitals, and traveling consultation services. 

Upon successful completion of this program, the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills with coworkers in the role of a sterile processing technician.
2. Use critical thinking to recognize, analyze, and solve problems related to sterile processing.
3. Demonstrate competency in the knowledge and skills required for entry-level sterile processing technician.
4. Display professionalism by projecting a positive attitude, working as a team member, showing initiative and responsibility, and displaying sensitivity to cultural diversity.

Technical Standards

In addition to DCCC requirements and course objectives, there are professional standards that encompass communication, motor skills, sensory and cognitive ability and professional conduct that are essential for the competent study and practice of a sterile processing technician. These technical standards are published in the application for admission to health programs and the program student handbook. Central Sterile Processing Technical Standards   

Admission Requirements

Applicants for admission to the Central Sterile Processing program must:

1. Complete a DCCC Application for Admission for those not currently enrolled at DCCC.
2. Complete all of the requirements for admission as described in the Central Sterile Processing Selective Admissions Packet.
3. Submit a High school transcript OR GED® score report (High school seniors should submit a current transcript by the deadline).
4. Submit an OFFICIAL college transcripts from colleges attended. All transcripts are not required, only those in which you plan to transfer credit must be submitted. College transcripts must arrive in original sealed envelopes. Faxed, copied, and on -line transcripts are not acceptable
5. Placement scores meeting Central Sterile Processing placement requirements (or approved equivalent) in the areas of computer skills, sentence skills, reading comprehension, arithmetic and algebra
6. Central Sterile Processing Intent Form submitted to admissions.
7. Eligibility Review - After completing the requirements above, you are responsible for scheduling an Eligibility Review appointment with your Enrollment Advisor.

NOTE: Meeting all admission requirements does not guarantee placement into Central Sterile Processing.

Transfer Credit for Central Sterile Processing Courses

The decision regarding transfer credit for Central Sterile Processing courses is made by the Director of the program in consultation with members of the faculty and the Associate Dean. Syllabi for courses for which credit is requested will be required.

Progression Requirements

A student must meet all prerequisite and corequisite CSP course requirements with a grade of “C” or better in order to progress in the program.

Criminal Background Check

A criminal background check and drug screen testing are required by the clinical site prior to participation in the clinical component.

If any clinical facility refuses to allow the student to participate in clinical experiences in the clinical agency, the student will not be able to progress in the program.