How to Train to Be a Surgical Tool Processor Read more: How to Train to Be a Surgical Tool Processor | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how_7148114_train-surgical-tool-processor.html#ixzz1wd9lV7MF

Surgical tool processors disinfect, sterilize and package surgical instruments for use in an operating room, according to the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution, the nonprofit organization that oversees their certification. Surgical instrument processors must be knowledgeable about infection control practices, sterilization techniques, types of cleaning agents, federal regulations for safety and sterilization and manufacturers’ instructions for optimal use. There are three ways to train to be a surgical tool processor.

1. • 1
     Complete an approved training program. Formal training to be a surgical tool processor is available from a few different types of training programs. Degree programs in surgical technology at community or technical colleges provide the necessary training and education to become a surgical tool processor, according to the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution; single sterile processing courses lasting anywhere from 15 days to seven weeks at local community colleges also help prepare you for a career in surgical tool processing. Online courses are also available from a variety of technical colleges and for-profit educational centers.
     
   • 2
     Obtain on-the-job training in a hospital. Hospital staff who work in operating rooms or central supply can train to be a surgical tool processor while working, since their jobs involve surgical equipment and rely on sterilization for safety; national certification prerequisites mandate that staff with on-the-job training must have at least two years’ worth of work experience sterilizing surgical equipment before sitting for the national exam. Operating room staff such as nurses, surgical technicians and non-sterile circulating staff, as well as central supply assistants, can ask to take on additional duties and learn how to sterilize and process surgical equipment. Many hospitals offer internal departmental classes or in-service training to help complement hands-on work experience for staff who wish to achieve certification and a career as a surgical tool processor.
     
   • 3
     Work for surgical tool manufacturers. The Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution notes that some surgical tool processors trained for their positions by working for surgical equipment manufacturers first. In fact, the board’s eligibility requirements allow surgical tool equipment sales staff with 24 months of experience or more to sit for the national certification exam. Internal sales training helps staff understand the equipment and proper sterilization procedures, and interactions with both technical engineers and end users provide an additional level of insight.