FRCC is returning to campus this fall! Learn more about our in-person learning plan for fall semester.

CACs

Classes & Registration FAQs

Self Assessment

How Online Classes Work

Online Degrees & Certificates

FRCC Online Classes

CCCOnline Classes

D2L Tutorials

Online Learning FAQs

State Authorization & Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) - Student Complaint & Grievance Process

Gateway to College

FAQs

Meet Our Instructors

DTECH Training

Larimer County SBDC

GED Prep Classes

From welding to philosophy, FRCC has a program for you.

Is a bachelor's degree your goal? Our two-year associate degrees (A.A., A.S.) are guaranteed to transfer to four-year public schools in Colorado.

Need skills? Our technical degrees (A.A.S.) and certificates launch you into a career. Some certificates can be completed in just one semester!

Select a campus to see what programs are offered there. Click on a program name for required classes, contacts, starting salaries, and more.

< Return to search results

Sterile Processing Technology

Offered in partnership with Centura Health at Avista Hospital

A sterile processing technician is an integral member of the surgical team who cleans, sterilizes, and assembles surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies for use in operating rooms and other medical and surgical facilities. Students will receive instruction in sterilization, infection control, decontamination, and surgical instrumentation processing, distribution and record-keeping.

Information Session Required for Registration

Learn more about our Sterile Processing Program by attending our information session the second Wednesday of the month on WebEx.

Sterile Processing Certificate

18 credits
(1 semester)

In this one-semester program, you will develop the knowledge and skills for entry-level work as a sterile processing technician. This program will prepare you for the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) exam through the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM). This program is part of an apprenticeship program in partnership with Centura Health and has a selective admission process.

See required courses and descriptions.

See admission requirements.

What You Will Learn

The curriculum aligns with IAHCSMM standards for the CRCST exam. Upon completion of this program students will be proficient in the following areas:

Cleaning, decontamination and disinfection of surgical instruments
Preparation and packaging of sterile surgical instruments
The sterilization process for surgical instruments and equipment
Types of patient care equipment used in surgery
Sterile storage and inventory management in the Sterile Processing Department
Documentation and record maintenance for the Sterile Processing Department
Working as a member of the Sterile Processing Department team

Apprenticeship Opportunities

Work at CenturaHealth during the week, and take your classes on the weekend. When you successfully complete this FRCC apprenticeship, you'll be well-prepared to take the national exam to become a certified sterile processing technician. You'll also have:

A nationally recognized certification
A diploma from FRCC
Continued employment with Centura Health

FRCC's apprenticeship in sterile processing aligns with the standards of the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM).