🧼 SPD – Sterile Processing Department

What is the SPD Exam?

The Sterile Processing Department (SPD) exam assesses the skills and knowledge required to handle medical instruments and equipment sterilization in hospitals and healthcare facilities. SPD professionals are essential for maintaining infection control, surgical readiness, and patient safety. Passing this exam demonstrates your competence in sterile processing procedures and your readiness to join hospital central service teams.

Who Should Take the SPD Exam?

• Healthcare support workers involved in instrument sterilization
• Technicians working in hospital central service or sterile processing departments
• Foreign-trained medical workers seeking U.S. employment in sterile processing
• Anyone pursuing certification to boost employability in infection control services

💡 Key Exam Topics Covered

• Cleaning and decontamination procedures
• Instrument packaging and sterilization
• Equipment handling and distribution
• Microbiology and infection prevention
• Sterile storage, inventory control, and documentation
• Safety and quality assurance protocols

🛠️ Format & Requirements

• Exam Format: Multiple-choice questions
• Delivery Mode: Online or test center-based, depending on the certifying body
• Duration: Usually 2–3 hours
• Passing Score: Typically ~70%
• Recommended Training: On-the-job experience or formal sterile processing training program