Sterile process technicians (SPTs) and surgical technicians (STs) have a similar role in the medical industry, as they help aid medical doctors in the prevention of infections.
However, the main difference is that SPTs mainly focus on sterilizing equipment to ensure that it is safe to use.
On the other hand, STs focus on aiding surgeons with surgery.
Essentially, both play an important role in the operating room.
Sterile Processing Technician (SPT) Overview
Often, people believe that SPTs and STs have a similar role.
However, that’s not true.
A SPT has certain responsibilities that are much different from that of an ST.
Here is a breakdown of an SPTs duties.
Cleaning and Decontamination
An SPT’s main responsibility is to sterilize and decontaminate surgical instruments and equipment.
Anything that is used in the operating room or before and after will need to be cleaned.
This ensures that no germs are transferred between patients or that anything can cause an infection.
They follow strict decontamination protocols and often have to be strict in the methods that they use for cleaning.
One wrong mistake, and they can face charges that affect a patient’s life.
SPTs also work with biohazardous materials, which an ST normally wouldn’t.
Tool and Medical Equipment Inspections
An SPT will also make sure to inspect everything from medical equipment and tools, to any accessories used during a procedure.
Before an operation, they will ensure that everything is present and sterilized.
They will also ensure that all tools are in their correct spots, which can help aid the surgeon in completing the operation quickly.
Maintaining Records and Inventory
Some equipment may only be used for a certain amount of time before it needs to be repaired or replaced.
SPTs will keep documents updated on which tools have been sterilized and at what date.
They will also keep records of equipment maintenance and help determine when another one is needed.
Aside from that, SPTs will also be responsible for ensuring that there is enough inventory of any tools used during an operation.
Not only that, but SPTs also have a crucial role in determining if any tools meet quality control standards.
While rare, some medical equipment or tools may be defective and it’s up to the SPT to catch the issue before surgery.
That way, there isn’t any harm to the patient, and the tools can be replaced and ordered.
Managing Sterilization Equipment
Sterilization of tools uses unique equipment that helps ensure the complete removal of germs and bacteria.
One piece of equipment used is called an autoclave and it helps remove any germs.
It’s used by SPTs to help clean laboratory instruments, pharmaceutical items, and other materials.
They vary in size and can be used to sterilize solids, liquids, and hollows.
An SPT will have to understand how to operate the equipment and use it to appropriately remove any chemicals or bacteria.
They will also need to monitor sterilization equipment, perform auto-checks, and troubleshoot any issues.
If they don’t, then it could lead to many issues down the line.
Educational Requirements of a Sterile Processing Technician
To become an SPT, one will first need to have their high school diploma or GED.
After that, they will need to complete any educational prerequisites that are listed on a college’s website.
Unlike general degrees, a sterile processing technician will have to get a certificate, which requires the completion of a valid program.
Programs will vary in length and most will be offered in-person.
However, some may be offered online.
Once the certificate is completed, an SPT will need to take an exit exam that is certified by either the Certified Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) or the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM).
Sterile Processing Technician Work Environment
SPTs will often work in the Central Sterile Supply Department, otherwise known as the CSSD.
This is where most of the tools go when they need to be sterilized.
Here, they operate specialized sterilization equipment to ensure that everything is decontaminated.
An SPT focuses mainly on preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and will follow strict protocols.
Surgical Technician (ST) Overview
On the other hand, a surgical technician (ST) works in a different area of the hospital.
They often have very different responsibilities and won’t be aiding in the sterilization of equipment.
Instead, they play a crucial role in the operating room and assisting surgeons in a procedure.
Preparing the Operating Room
One of the key responsibilities of an ST is to set up surgical instruments and tools.
They will also be expected to move any equipment and prep it for the upcoming surgery.
Where the overlap between an SPT and ST does happen is in ensuring that the operating room is sterile and clean.
Assisting in Surgical Procedures
Another responsibility of an ST is that they will be “scrubbing in” and aiding a surgeon with surgery.
Here, they will have to sterilize gowns and gloves and be prepped for working in the operating room.
They will also help aid in the sanitation of the operating room while the operation is going on.
Aiding Surgical Team
Another responsibility that an ST has that an SPT doesn’t is the aiding of surgeons in the operating room.
While an operation is taking place, an ST will have to be standing in during the surgery.
Here, they will be responsible for handing tools and instruments to the surgeon.
You’ve often seen them in TV dramas where surgeons say “Hand me the scalpel”.
Often, STs will need to interpret or predict surgeons’ needs and have tools and materials ready to go.
When the operation is taking place, they will need to provide surgeons with the necessary tools as requested.
This will have to be done quickly, as there is a lot that could go wrong in an operation.
Maintaining Sterilization
Lastly, an ST will be responsible for keeping everything clean during the operation.
This includes preventing any contamination of tools, instruments, or materials.
They will also need to adhere to strict aseptic techniques which can help in case of an emergency.
Educational Requirements of a Surgical Technician
Similar to that of an SPT, an ST will also need to attend a certificate program (there are many online surgical tech programs).
First, they will need to have their high school diploma or a GED.
Then, they will either have to attend an associate’s degree program or a certificate program.
The program must be certified by the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
Surgical Technician Work Environment
As already stated, an ST will work in the operating room.
They will have to work alongside other STs and be able to help a surgeon at any moment.
They are often on-call and will work under a specific surgeon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do SPTs and STs mainly differ?
SPTs and STs mainly differ in the area in which they work.
SPTs will be handling equipment outside the operating room, while STs will work inside the operating room.
An ST will also be aiding a surgeon, while an SPT will aid the entire medical building with sterilization and decontamination.
Both are excellent areas to work in, but an ST will be a more stressful and high-paced job.
Are SPTs and STs similar?
Other than their names, they aren’t really that similar.
They both have their job duties and work in different areas of the hospital.
The main overlap is that they both ensure the sterilization of equipment, which leads many people to believe that they are doing the same job.
However, they often have different educational courses and programs to gain a certificate.
Which one should I become?
It depends on what type of work you’re interested in.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced environment, then an ST could be a good fit.
However, if you mainly want to work on your own and sterilize equipment, then an SPT is a better choice.
Both have the same range of training, so it comes down to your preferences.