Sterile Processing and Distribution Technicians, or Medical Equipment Preparers as referred to by the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, are integral members of the healthcare team and are responsible for the cleaning, sterilization, processing, organization, and distribution of patient equipment, instruments, supplies, and products used in the care and treatment of patients. They work side by side with nurses and surgical technologists to ensure optimum patient safety and care. Theory and practical application of medical terminology, human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and infection control processes will be discussed as well laboratory knowledge and skills of instrumentation, supplies, and processing techniques. This course meets for 80 hours of hybrid instruction. Students will also complete an off-site externship of 120 hours.

Contact Us

BUSINESS & CONTINUING EDUCATION

254-298-8625

bce@templejc.edu

Degrees & Certificates

Upon successful completion, graduates will receive a certificate of completion and become eligible to apply for certification offered by the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) certification through the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution, Inc. (CBSPD).

Program Information

Admission Requirements

Individuals must meet the following requirements for admission:

  • Has earned a high school diploma, GED, or High School Equivalence Certificate.
  • Be a minimum of 18 years old.
  • Has a photo ID and a social security card.
  • Willing to complete a criminal history background check (individuals with any infractions that would prohibit certification will not be admitted into the program).
  • Be willing to provide evidence of the following required immunizations via a Castlebranch electronic compliance tracker:
    • Tuberculosis skin test, flu shot, hepatitis B series vaccine, tetanus, two measles, rubella, mumps, covid-19 series, two varicella, and COVID-19 series.
  • Proof of completion of the CPR course for Healthcare Providers.
  • Prior to the beginning of the externship:
    • Is willing to provide the results from a drug screening test (wait on the instructor to request before completing).
    • Tuition must be paid in full prior to the externship.
Application Procedure

The Sterile Processing & Distribution Technician Program course is offered two times a year and each class size is limited to the first 10 students who have completed the application process.

The completed application packet must be dropped off in person at the BCE Registration Office.

Please Remember

Once an application and all required documents are acquired please bring all items to our office for registration steps.

At registration:

  • Be prepared to pay for the course
  • Be prepared to pay $40 with a credit card or debit card for an online background check.
  • Compliance Tracker must be purchased through Castlebranch and all documents must be uploaded prior to registration. $38 (non-refundable fee)

   Application Packet

 Tuition & Payment Options

Total Cost: $2,234 (includes textbooks, supplies, drug screen, and exam voucher)

Payment  Plan: $2,264 Total Cost (includes tuition, textbooks, certification voucher, and a $30 one-time payment plan fee)

The first payment of $477 is due at registration and includes the one-time $30 fee. Four additional payments of $447 are due monthly. Cash payments cannot be used to set up payment plans; payment plans are set up online. Checking and routing information is preferred.  Credit and debit card payments are accepted but additional fees apply.

Financial Aid: Eligible students may receive financial aid for 50% of the tuition based on the availability of funds.  Apply at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Scholarship: Students may be eligible for the Direct Your Destiny (DYD) Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) Scholarship. More information can be found here: https://www.templejc.edu/programs/adult-basic-education/

Loans: Student loans may be available through SallieMae’s Smart Option Student Loan. Call 1-866-439-0993 for more information.
 Additional Program Costs
CPR Course $65
Criminal Background Check $40 (paid with a credit or debit card)
Vaccination Document Tracking

$38 (paid with a credit or debit card)

Set of Scrubs $15-$25 (price varies)
Next Start Date

Class begins: May 1, 2023
Registration begins March 01, 2023

Mondays, 4 – 6 p.m.

Employment

The median hourly pay in Texas is $17.06

*U.S. Department of Labor