Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Sterile Processing Technician
What sterile processing technicians actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Start in decontamination, putting on PPE and sorting returned instrument sets. From there, the day usually includes collect and decontaminate used instruments and devices, inspect instruments for cleanliness, function and damage, and assemble instrument trays using count sheets. Hospitals run sterile processing around the clock, so day, evening and night shifts and weekends are common.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a sterile processing technician working full time.
- Start in decontamination, putting on PPE and sorting returned instrument sets.
- Load washer-disinfectors and ultrasonic cleaners, following each item’s instructions for use.
- Inspect clean instruments under magnification and test scissors and clamps.
- Assemble orthopedic trays with the count sheet and wrap them for sterilization.
- Run a steam sterilizer load with a biological indicator and record the load.
- Pull case carts for tomorrow’s first surgeries.
- Check a rush tray for the OR and update the tracking system.
Where sterile processing technicians work
Technicians work in hospital sterile processing departments, surgery centers and dental and specialty clinics. The decontamination area is hot, wet and noisy and requires PPE; the clean side is quieter. The work involves standing and lifting trays.
Hours and schedule
Hospitals run sterile processing around the clock, so day, evening and night shifts and weekends are common.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Collect and decontaminate used instruments and devices
- Inspect instruments for cleanliness, function and damage
- Assemble instrument trays using count sheets
- Package and label items for sterilization
- Operate steam and low-temperature sterilizers
- Run and document biological and chemical indicator tests
- Prepare case carts and track inventory
Tools you’ll use every day
- Washer-disinfectors and ultrasonic cleaners
- Steam autoclaves
- Low-temperature sterilizers (hydrogen peroxide)
- Lighted magnifiers
- Biological and chemical indicators
- Instrument tracking software
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Healthcare job without direct patient care
- Quick training and certification
- Steady demand wherever surgery happens
- Clear path to lead and supervisor roles
What’s hard
- Hot, wet decontamination work in heavy PPE
- Standing and lifting heavy trays
- High pressure when the OR is waiting
- Little room for error
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like detailed, hands-on work
- I want to work in healthcare without direct patient care
- I follow procedures exactly
- I can stand and lift for a full shift
- I stay focused when people need things quickly
- I take pride in getting things completely right
Not sure? Take the free Sterile Processing Technician fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Wear full PPE in decontamination
- Handle sharps and heavy trays carefully
- Protect yourself from steam burns when unloading sterilizers
- Follow chemical safety data sheets for detergents and sterilants