OP3171 Open Polytechnic Certificate in Sterilising Technology (Level 3)
This Open Polytechnic programme assists to develop knowledge and skills in the decontamination of instruments, equipment and materials for health purposes. It is designed for people using sterilisation procedures in healthcare facilities and is a qualification recognised by the New Zealand Sterile Services Association.
Download the brochure for this programme, ( .pdf 207kb) document will open in a new window.
Programme structure
The programme consists of 7 courses, which are delivered in two modules. You will be required to successfully complete all courses in module one before enrolling in module two.
Module one consists of:
Course | Title | Credits | Level |
3300 | Microbiology and infection control | 5 | 3 |
3301 | Decontamination and care of instruments | 3 | 3 |
3302 | Packaging, handling and storage of sterile supplies | 4 | 3 |
Module two consists of:
Course | Title | Credits | Level |
3303 | Steam sterilisation | 6 | 3 |
3304 | Low temperature sterilisation, dry heat sterilisation and gamma radiation | 4 | 3 |
3305 | Monitoring and testing of sterilisers | 3 | 3 |
3306 | Sterilising technology practice | 15 | 3 |
To complete these courses, you will need to have access to a sterile services workplace using steam sterilisation and have a supervisor who is able to confirm that you have demonstrated and/or completed the required workplace tasks.
Entry requirements
To gain entry to all courses in the Open Polytechnic Certificate in Sterilising Technology you will need to:
- Be employed in a New Zealand healthcare facility providing sterile services Exemption: This entry requirement will not apply if the Academic Registrar of the Polytechnic is satisfied that you are capable of completing the coursework and workplace requirements by reason of your current work situation
- Have a supervision agreement with an approved workplace supervisor
- Be a member of the New Zealand Sterile Services Association
To enrol in Course 3303 you will need to have access to a workplace suitable for completing practical tasks using steam sterilisation.
If you do not have access to all the required sterilisation methods in your workplace please contact the Programme Leader before submitting your enrolment application.
Level of study
Level 3 (Find out about levels of study)
Hours of study
400 hours for the total programme. Hours vary for individual courses, from 30 to 150 hours.
Fees
Download the 2010 fee schedule, ( .pdf) document will open in a new window).
What do I do now?
Request a copy of the brochure.
Download an enrolment form.
For further information free phone 0508 650 200 or email
Download a copy of the NZ Sterile Services Association membership form.
Other Information
If you are interested in enrolling in the Certificate in Sterilising Technology (Level 3), you must complete an Application for Enrolment form and return it to the Open Polytechnic. In addition, you will be required to submit a signed supervision agreement with details of your named workplace supervisor.
To find out more about this programme, contact the Programme Leader:
Lyn Mowles
Freephone: 0508 650 200 Ext. 5595 (Mon - Thurs)
Direct Phone: 04 913 5595 (Mon - Thurs)
Email: Lyn Mowles
