A sterile processing technician’s primary duty is to sterilize and disinfect medical and surgical instruments and equipment.
Technicians need to know how to use autoclaves and other equipment to remove contaminants.
They must also know how to manually sterilize equipment.
Other duties include tracking inventory, sticking supplies, and keeping accurate records.
Though they don’t work directly with patients, a sterile processing technician is vital to their health and safety.
These medical workers can work in many different environments, such as hospitals, doctor’s offices, clinics, nursing homes, and imaging centers.
If you are detail-oriented, work well independently, and are a self-starter, sterile processing may be a good career choice for you.
In Louisiana, the average technician makes $29,500 per year.
However, many places pay close to $45,000 per year.
Keep reading for more information on how to become a sterile processing technician in Louisiana.
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Steps To Becoming A Sterile Processing Technician In Louisiana
- First and foremost, all candidates must have a high school diploma.
- Next, you’ll need to find a program that’s right for you. Making sure that it fits your budget and schedule are two of the most important factors. Things like location, class size, and types of classes offered are also important. Also, keep in mind that although Louisiana doesn’t require licenses, most employers do require certification. The better the program, the more likely you are to be hired.
- Once you have chosen schools, apply. Then wait to hear.
- Once you’ve been accepted, most programs require both classroom lectures and hands-on clinical experience either on campus or in a local facility.
- Once you’ve successfully completed the program and received your certificate, you can start applying for jobs.
Schools In Louisiana That Offer Sterile Processing Technician Training
1. University Of Louisiana At Lafayette
About The School
Opened in 1901, this 1500-acre campus offers over 240 degree and certificate programs.
They are accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
The university is considered an R1 school, which means it’s on par with schools like Harvard as far as the research that’s been done.
There are many clubs, organizations, and activities in which students participate.
Course Offerings
The sterile processing program is 190 hours long and is self-paced.
Students have up to 12 months to complete courses online and have the support of an instructor.
Topics to be studied include medical terminology, identifying surgical instruments and equipment, the sterilization process, and disinfection of tools and work areas.
Students will also take courses to familiarize themselves with body systems, workplace safety, infection control, and record keeping.
The cost of the program is $2,795.
Financial aid is available for those that qualify.
Address: 104 University Circle Lafayette, Louisiana 71107
Phone: (337) 482-1000
Website: https://louisiana.edu
2. Southern University At Shreveport
About The School
Southern University is a 2-year college offering associate degrees and certificates in over 50 areas.
They are accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Located in the center of exciting Shreveport, the college is close to public transportation, shops, and restaurants.
Course Offerings
The sterile processing program at the college takes 190 hours to complete.
This does not include a 400-hour internship that would be required to sit for the national exam.
Though this is not required, the school encourages students to take this path, as it can make them stand out as job candidates.
In addition to learning sterilization and disinfecting techniques, the program stresses critical thinking skills, teamwork, and professionalism.
Courses include lectures and hands-on practice with surgical instruments and equipment.
A safety and infectious disease course is also administered.
The cost of the program can be up to $4,000.
However, most students qualify for financial aid, which significantly lowers the price.
Address: 3050 Martin Luther King Dr. Shreveport, Louisiana 71107
Phone: (318) 670-6000
Website: http://www.susla.edu
3. Fortis College
About The School
Fortis is a private career education school that focuses on medical and healthcare programs.
Located in the shopping district of Baton Rouge, it’s convenient to get to and great to have shops at your fingertips.
Classes are offered during the day and evening.
Course Offerings
The sterile processing program at Fortis can be completed in 190 hours with an optional 400-hour internship.
The courses are a combination of classroom, lab, and clinical experiences.
Students will learn all they need to properly sterilize medical equipment.
Coursework also includes medical terminology, safety, infectious diseases, record keeping, medical billing and processing via various computer programs, and communication skills.
Please contact an admissions counselor for tuition information.
Address: 1411 Airline Hwy Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70819
Phone: (225) 247-1015
Website: https://www.fortis.edu/campuses/louisiana/baton-rouge.html
Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Louisiana – Summary Table
Top 3 Schools in Louisiana
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| University Of Louisiana At Lafayette | 104 University Circle Lafayette, Louisiana 71107 |
| Southern University At Shreveport | 3050 Martin Luther King Dr. Shreveport, Louisiana 71107 |
| Fortis College | 1411 Airline Hwy Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70819 |
Salary For Sterile Processing Technicians In Louisiana
The average salary for a sterile processing technician in Louisiana is $29,500 per year.
However, in larger cities like Baton Rouge and New Orleans, the salary averages between $45,000 and $50,000.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Sterile Processing Technicians in Louisiana
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| New Orleans | $37,370 |
| Baton Rouge | $35,870 |
| Shreveport | $35,090 |
| Lafayette | $34,800 |
| Lake Charles | $34,590 |
| Kenner | $37,350 |
| Bossier City | $35,090 |
| Monroe | $34,370 |
| Alexandria | $33,820 |
| New Iberia | $34,600 |
Regional Salary in Louisiana
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baton Rouge, LA | 90 | $38,980 | $18.74 | $48,850 | $28,880 |
| New Orleans-Metairie, LA | 110 | $39,520 | $19 | $46,520 | $30,460 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City, LA | 70 | $36,740 | $17.66 | $44,040 | $29,680 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the annual fees for holding a sterile processing license in Louisiana?
The state of Louisiana does not require sterile processing technicians to be licensed, so there are no annual fees.
However, it is recommended that technicians take annual professional development to brush up on the latest trends and techniques.
Should I take the national exam?
While the national exam is not required to gain certification or employment, it can be a valuable credential when applying for jobs.
What are some personal qualities a sterile processing technician should possess?
Good sterile processing technicians should have strong attention to detail, be patient, have the ability to work independently and alone, be able to stand for extended periods of time and have good organizational skills.
Where can I work as a sterile processing technician?
Sterile processing technicians can work in a variety of environments.
These include fast-paced hospitals and clinics to more laid-back facilities like doctors’ offices and nursing homes.
