NVCC is offering a Central Sterile Processing Technician program this fall, in response to increasing demands for the industry need for certification.

The course is a basic study of sterile processing, designed to educate those who wish to work in a healthcare facility or those who are already employed in the profession.

NVCC instructor Debbie Pennell said the course will give students an opportunity to take the national certification exam, because the only way to qualify for the exam is by working in a central sterile for a minimum of one year, or by taking a course.

The State of New York recently passed a law requiring that central sterile processing technicians be certified in the field, and Connecticut is reintroducing a bill this year. Although certification is not mandatory yet in CT, Pennell said many hospitals are requiring certification for employment.

This course will offer students the ability move forward in a field that has many directions, such as hospitals, surgical centers, specialty centers, and dentist offices.

“Some forty years ago, cleaning and sterilizing was everybody’s business, but no one’s responsibility,” Pennell said. “With the emphasis on infection control standards today in healthcare, it is instrumental in encouraging health care facilities to establish a separate and distinct department with specialized expertise and direct responsibility for providing clean and sterile medical supplies and equipment.”

NVCC Economic and Community Development Director Laurie Hornbecker said she hopes students will take advantage of the unique course.

“NVCC workforce training programs are designed to meet and surpass academic and industry standards.  The central sterile processing technician is a vital role in assuring the best positive outcomes for patients undergoing any surgical procedure,” said Hornbecker. “We’re always looking to make sure our course offerings correspond with job market trends, and ever-changing industry standards. This is just one example of that.”

Those interested in additional information should visit: nv.edu/nc, or to register, call (203)575-8029.