Central Sterilization Solutions (CSS) follows a 5-step process with all of our students enrolled in a Sterile Processing Class or Course. This 5-step process has proven to be highly effective in getting students certified and finding them a career in sterile processing. Central Sterilization Solutions (CSS) was created for professionals at all levels of their careers. Providing a one-of-a-kind education experience to get people into the medical field, fast. Our success is based on our students. CSS will be there from curiosity to job opportunities. With over 35 years of in-the-field experience, CSS was developed by professionals, for professionals. From technicians, leads, managers, and educators, CSS knows what the industry is looking for. For these reasons, our program is so unique compared to the rest.
Step 1: Education
CSS offers 3 ways to learn Sterile Processing; In-Person Classes, Live Stream Classes, or Online Courses. Each option provides a detailed breakdown of Sterile Processing reviewing the HSPA CRCST Textbook. There is no hands-on training in class, that comes during Internship Assistance.
In the beginning, we started teaching In-Person Lectures. As time went on, we wanted to provide a more flexible option that was not restricted to a physical classroom, so we began Live streaming lectures via Zoom. Live Stream Lectures provided the same quality information as In-Person Classes, without the need to drive to a class. Students can ask the instructor questions throughout the lecture, just like they would in a classroom. A simple internet connection and a video conferencing app (Z00m) are all that are required. Since these classes are taught by an instructor, students are to follow a specific schedule. The Online Courses are developed from our In-Person and Live Stream Classes. The Online courses consist of pre-recorded lectures, practice exercises, and quizzes, which are available 24/7. Students can progress through the Online CRCST Courses at their own pace but can get support, as needed.
While attending a class or course, students will learn the fundamentals of Sterile Processing, while following the 24 chapters in the HSPA CRCST Textbook and Workbook. Topics learned throughout step 1: Central Service, Medical Terminology, Anatomy for Central Service Techs, Microbiology for Central Service Techs, Regulations, and Standards, Infection Prevention, Decontamination, etc.
From our industry experience, CSS has developed insightful lectures that have helped educate hundreds of students to pass their certifications. After completing the Class/Course, students will be prepared to take the HSPA Provisional CRCST Exam.
Step 2: CSS Prep Exam
After completing their education, students who have taken classes or courses in CSS can put their knowledge to the test with the CSS Prep Exam. This timed exam lasts for two hours and consists of 175 questions, allowing students to assess their understanding of the material covered in their classes. The CSS Prep Exam is modeled after the HSPA Provisional Exam, which has a longer testing time of three hours but fewer questions. By utilizing the Prep Exam, CSS challenges students with a shorter duration and a higher number of questions, providing them with a rigorous testing experience.
Step 3: HSPA Provisional Exam
After completing their CSS Prep Exam, students have the opportunity to request and schedule the HSPA CRCST Provisional Exam. This exam is administered by HSPA, and students will need to visit an approved testing location that is convenient for them to take the exam. Students need to verify that the information regarding the testing is up-to-date, as this could potentially change. The HSPA CRCST Provisional Exam allows students three hours to complete a total of 150 questions. Once the exam is completed, students will receive their scores immediately, and the official results will be mailed to them. If a student passes the examination, they will then have six months to complete 400 hours of hands-on training, following a specific set of requirements provided by HSPA. However, if a student fails the exam, they will have to wait a few weeks before they can retest. Students must study and prepare thoroughly for this exam to increase their chances of success.
Step 4: Career Support
With over 35 years of relevant industry experience, CSS provides resources, tools, and support for our students looking for careers in Sterile Processing. CSS provides resume building, interview prep readiness, and resources to help find employment. Resume building consists of drafting and editing resumes to address key indicators managers may be looking for. Interview readiness has students conduct mock interviews to increase confidence and strengthen interviewee skills. On CSS.COM, students can search for employment in their local areas.
Because of our connections and consistent involvement in the industry, we understand what managers are looking for from technicians. Exercising these resources has helped hundreds of our students find career opportunities. CSS, with the help of 3rd-party partners, will assist with job placement after course completion and certification. With our support, get connected with healthcare facilities that need certified technicians.
Step 5: Internship Hours/Hands-On Training
Since there is currently no hands-on training being conducted in the classroom, students in the Sterile Processing program will have the opportunity to complete their required hours at a local hospital’s Sterile Processing department. Central Sterilization Solutions (CSS) has established partnerships with multiple healthcare locations throughout California to facilitate this process. By completing their internship in a real-world Sterile Processing department, students will gain valuable experience and a true understanding of the responsibilities involved in being a Sterile Processing Technician. To become fully certified, students will need to fulfill a set of department-specific requirements. The Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) has provided a sign-off sheet for students to track their hours, which can be accessed at the following link. Before starting their internship, students will need to obtain a Provisional CRCST Certificate, which demonstrates their commitment and readiness to our partnering facilities. Finding an internship location can be a challenge, but CSS is continuously expanding its network of affiliate healthcare partners to better support students in this process.
For more details, check out our CRCST course page: https://centralsterilizationschool.com/certified-registered-central-service-technician-crcst/
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