Sterile processing technicians are a vital part of the medical profession.
Their primary role is to sterilize and disinfect surgical tools and equipment that come in contact with patients.
Sterile processing technicians are the first line of defense in keeping patients safe and healthy.
A sterile processing technician may also stock, repackage, and keep track of inventory for all medical supplies.
A good technician will have an eye for detail, work well in a team, and be well organized.
In Maryland, and across the nation, the need for sterile processing technicians is expected to increase by 15% over the next 5 years.
The state of Maryland has many hospitals and clinics that employ sterile processing technicians.
If you’re interested in becoming a sterile processing technician in Maryland, read in for some useful information.
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Steps To Becoming A Sterile Processing Technician In Maryland
While the state of Maryland does not require sterile processing technicians to be certified, it is a credential you want to think about getting.
It shows potential employers that you are capable and up to the job.
The following steps, however, must be taken before employers consider you for a position as a sterile processing technician:
- You must have a high school diploma or a GED so that you can be accepted into a post-secondary school.
- Research sterile processing programs and choose the one that fits your needs.
- Enroll in, and successfully complete the program. Coursework differs by program. Some may require an externship that can be up to 400 hours. You may also be able to find employment and gain experience hours that way.
- Take the optional national certification exam to improve your chances of getting hired.
Schools For Sterile Processing Technicians In Maryland
1. Compassionate Academy
About The School
Compassionate Academy is a private vocational school for students interested in the healthcare profession.
Certificate programs include a certified nursing assistant, a sterile processing technician, a medical technician, and a home health aide.
They offer day, evening, and weekend classes.
Course Offering
The sterile processing program takes about 6 months to complete and the cost is $1,000.
Students will learn from a combination of lectures and hands-on training.
Topics covered include microbiology, biology, sterilization and disinfection procedures, safety, bloodborne pathogens, record keeping, and communication skills.
Students must have a high school diploma or GED.
Address: 1835 University Blvd. Hyattsville, MD 20783
Phone: (301) 332-9699
Website: http://www.compassionateacademy.com
2. Anne Arundel Community College
About The School
Anne Arundel College is a public 2-year school that offers associate and certificate programs in healthcare, science, technology, and liberal arts.
Founded in 2961, the college is accredited by The Middle States Commission on Higher Learning.
They offer free tuition for many of their corticate programs.
Course Offering
The program will prepare students to perform all the duties required of sterile processing technicians in various settings.
Students will learn how to handle medical instruments, proper sterilization techniques, how to assess the condition of instruments, and safety precautions.
They will be required to perform a series of externships in a variety of settings, like hospitals and clinics.
The cost of the program is $2,300.
However, most students qualify for free tuition.
All students must have a high school diploma, pass a background check, and pass a drug screening.
Address: 101 College Pkwy Arnold, MD 21012
Phone: (410) 777-2222
Website: https://www.aacc.edu
3. Carroll Community College
About The School
Founded in 1973, Carroll is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
They offer a variety of degree and corticate programs from fields including performing arts, business, and allied health professions.
Course Offering
The sterile processing program is 4 months long and the cost of tuition is $1,375.
Students will learn from a combination of lectures and hands-on lab experience.
Skills taught are sterilization methods, an inspection of instruments, and repackaging.
Topics covered also include safety, infectious diseases, record keeping, and interpersonal skills.
A high school diploma is required.
Address: 1601 Washington Rd. Westminster, MD 21157
Phone: (888) 221-9758
Website: https://www.carrollcc.edu
Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Maryland – Summary Table
Top 3 Schools in Maryland
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Compassionate Academy | 1835 University Blvd. Hyattsville, MD 20783 |
| Anne Arundel Community College | 101 College Pkwy Arnold, MD 21012 |
| Carroll Community College | 1601 Washington Rd. Westminster, MD 21157 |
Salary For Sterile Processing Technicians In Maryland
The average salary for a sterile processing technician in Maryland is $37,000 per year.
However, many technicians make upwards of $50,000 per year.
This depends on the employer, location, certification, and experience.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Sterile Processing Technicians in Maryland
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Baltimore | $39,240 |
| Frederick | $41,000 |
| Gaithersburg | $42,370 |
| Bowie | $42,400 |
| Rockville | $42,440 |
| Hagerstown | $38,790 |
| Annapolis | $40,440 |
| College Park | $42,490 |
| Salisbury | $40,580 |
| Cumberland | $35,020 |
Regional Salary in Maryland
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | 810 | $50,530 | $24.29 | $62,380 | $36,330 |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV | 40 | $44,020 | $21.16 | $54,830 | $34,900 |
| Salisbury, MD-DE | 90 | $46,060 | $22.14 | $55,920 | $36,620 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a license required to be a sterile processing technician in Maryland?
A license is not required.
But students at most schools are encouraged to take the exam for certification.
What cities in Maryland pay sterile processing technicians the most?
The cities of Silver Springs, Gaithersburg, and Prince Frederick are the highest-paying cities for sterile processing technicians in Maryland.
Where are some places in Maryland that employ sterile processing technicians?
Maryland has many clinics, doctor’s offices, and hospitals.
Among the largest employers of sterile processing technicians are Johns Hopkins Hospital and The University of Maryland Medical Center.
What are some similar jobs in Maryland?
Jobs similar to sterile processing in Maryland include dental lab technician, endoscopy technician, and general lab technician.
