Sterile Processing and Distribution

Sterile Processing and Distribution

Sterile Processing and Distribution technicians clean, inspect, assemble, and sterilize surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies for use in operating rooms and other medical and surgical facilities. The program includes instruction in decontamination, infection control, sterilization, and surgical instrumentation processing, distribution, and record-keeping. Successful graduates will be granted an Elgin Community College Sterile Processing and Distribution Basic Vocational Specialist certificate (BVS).  Graduates are also eligible for certification by the Certified Board of Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD); and by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).

Entrance Requirements

Proof of High School Diploma and,  
One of the following:

Reading: Grade of C or better in RDG 091 or LTC 099, or satisfaction of other placement criteria.  
Grade of C or better in HPE 112 within 5 years  

Must attend an Information Session:  Explore Sterile Processing Careers: Join an Information Session | ECC

Admission Procedures


Apply for this program no later than October 1st for a spring semester start.  

Illinois requires Health Professions students to have a valid Social Security number for a background check at program entry. To participate in classes and clinical experiences, you must also complete:

  • A drug screening
  • Proof of required immunizations
  • A completed medical form

These steps are necessary to ensure a safe learning environment and successful clinical placement. 

Program Requirements

Students will purchase their own ECC program scrubs and provide their own transportation to the clinical agencies. Students must complete SGT-100 with a grade of C or higher to be eligible for certification.

Policies and Procedures

Prior to the first day of class, students must have the following documentation on file with CastleBranch: negative 12-panel drug test results (including THC), clear background check results, completed and signed medical form, proof of immunizations/titer results, and proof of health insurance coverage.

Sterile Processing Distribution

  • Correlate knowledge of purpose of safe practice and patient care concepts related to infection prevention and control.

  • Incorporate principles, safety standards and regulations as it relates to Central Services and Materials Management.

  • Apply basic understanding of surgical instrumentation.

  • Identify and implement proper sterilization methods as an entry-level sterile processing and distribution technician.

  • Integrate responsible behavior as a health care professional.

  • Apply their knowledge of the biologic sciences and biomedical technology to their role in the Sterile Processing and Distribution department (cognitive program goal).

  • Demonstrate and value the skills that are required for quality patient care, safe practice, and aseptic techniques in the Sterile Processing and Distribution department (psychomotor program goal).

  • Communicate effectively with team members and other facility departments (psychomotor program goal).

  • Assume responsibility as a member of the profession of Sterile Processing and Distribution by applying established standards of practice, professional ethics, and ongoing self-evaluation (affective program goal).

  • Maintain an “Ethical Conscience” and accountability for personal actions (affective program goal).

Sterile Processing and Distribution-Basic Vocational Specialist

Course Title Credits
SGT 100Sterile Processing and Distribution5