Starting something new can be exciting, but it can also be a little intimidating. If you’re getting ready to start your training to be a sterile tech, we have a few tips to help you be prepared. We’re very excited for you as you take this important step to begin your new career!
Brush Up on Study Skills
Sterile techs are part of the primary line of defense against infection in any healthcare environment. By training in this field, you can learn vital infection control techniques to keep hospitals and other medical facilities, as well as surgical instruments, safe and free from the spread of diseases. Your study skills are important because they’ll help you master the material so you have a solid foundation in this field.
Your program will help you turn abstract concepts into real-life skills. You’ll gain hands-on experience so you can understand microbiology and infection control as it pertains to sterile processing and decontamination procedures. Think back to what has worked for you in the past: do you review notes extensively, study best in a group, or use flashcards? Use what works for you.
Think Ahead to Certification
Certification is important; although it’s not your immediate focus, it should be part of your thought process even as you prepare to enter the program. Certification validates your skills and identifies you as credible and qualified. It’s not required in all states, but it’s an important indicator of your expertise.
If you keep certification in the back of your mind throughout the process, it will help you feel more prepared to take the test. The test will show your knowledge, skills, and capabilities as a sterile processing technician. You must have 400 hours of hands-on experience and pass an exam to gain this certification. Also, it’s important to note that continuing education is part of maintaining your certification.
Prepare to Focus on Your Studies
This program is the beginning of your new career, and now is the time to prepare to focus on it. For example, do you have a place where you can comfortably focus on learning? Research shows that when we work with interruptions, it takes time to get back on task, and we feel stressed and frustrated. Carve out time and space for yourself to work uninterrupted. This will allow you to focus better and feel more confident about what you’re learning.
Also, keep in mind that sleep is essential to help you learn. Sleep provides energy, revitalization, and time for our brains to catalog what we’ve learned. Studies have shown that people who sleep between learning and testing score much higher than those who haven’t slept. Are you ready to catch some ZZZZs?
You Got This!
At 365 Healthcare Staffing Services, we specialize in the recruitment and placement of healthcare professionals in per diem, travel, and permanent assignments in healthcare facilities across the country. We believe in you, and we know you can do this! When you’re ready for your next assignment, we’ll be here to help. Give us a call at 310.436.3650.
