Central Service Technician Certificate

Certificate of Completion: 30 credits

Enrollment Point: Summer or Winter Quarter

This program is designed to provide the training and the clinical experience required to prepare you for the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM) Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST). It can also be your first step toward a career in the healthcare field. Students gain knowledge of National and International standards for decontamination and sterilization. Students study the principles of microbiology with emphasis on decontamination, disinfection and sterilization, with an overview of medical terminology, fundamentals of human anatomy, proper care and handling of surgical instrumentation, basic surgical instrument identification, inventory control, distribution, purchasing, and healthcare trends. An internship at a local hospital is included in the program.

Program Learning Outcomes: 

• Maintain a safe and efficient work environment that complies with the current industry standards while utilizing knowledge in the role of Central Service Technician. 
• Demonstrate the ability to abide by professional and ethical standards of the Central Service Department and assume responsibility for professional growth within the profession. 
• Communicate effectively with external and internal customers of a diverse population on a professional level. 
• Demonstrate critical thinking and reasoning skills to prioritize, anticipate and evaluate the needs of the department and customers of the Central Service Department. 
• Perform the principles of infection control and personal protection in the decontamination, prep/assembly and sterilizing of surgical instrumentation and equipment for patient care. 
• Qualify to take the national certification test for Central Service Technicians given by the International Association of HealthCare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM).