A career as a Service Technician requires specific skills and certifications. This guide outlines the prerequisites for entering a Central Service Technician Program and the ongoing requirements for maintaining certification. Understanding these requirements is crucial for aspiring service technicians.
Central Service Technician Program Admission Requirements
To qualify for the Central Service Technician Program, prospective students must fulfill several key requirements:
- English Proficiency: Demonstrated fluency in both written and spoken English is essential for effective communication in this field.
- CastleBranch Compliance: Full compliance with CastleBranch requirements is mandatory. This includes establishing an account, submitting required documentation, and passing a nationwide criminal background check, specifically focusing on crimes against persons. The CastleBranch package code is RR64, and the associated cost is $113.99. Important: Do not create a CastleBranch account before receiving an official invitation and registering for the program.
- Hepatitis B Vaccination: Proof of a completed Hepatitis B vaccine series (three vaccines or immunity titer) is required before registration. Note that the initial vaccine series takes a minimum of seven months to complete.
I-BEST Program Participation
The Central Service Technician Program offers I-BEST support. Applicants must complete the I-BEST Identification Survey. Eligibility for I-BEST will be confirmed via email. Eligible students will then need to complete the LACES Intake Form.
Post-Admission Screening and Tracking
Upon receiving an invitation to the program, accepted students must meet further health and vaccination requirements in accordance with Center for Disease Control guidelines for healthcare providers. This includes:
- Comprehensive Health Documentation: Submission of original, dated, and signed documentation from a healthcare provider is required, including lab results, x-ray reports, and immunization records. All CastleBranch requirements must be uploaded, except for CPR certification, which will be obtained during the program.
- Immunization Compliance: Maintaining current immunizations is crucial for clinical placements and externships. Required immunizations include:
- Annual Tuberculosis skin test (must remain valid throughout clinicals)
- Annual seasonal Influenza vaccine
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) vaccine within the last 10 years (must remain valid throughout clinicals)
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccine (two doses or proof of immunity)
- Varicella vaccine (two doses or proof of immunity)
- Annual Requirements: Students must undergo an annual background check through CastleBranch and maintain personal health insurance coverage throughout the program duration.
Additional Health Requirements
For student and patient safety, a current (within one year) physical evaluation by a physician or nurse practitioner is required. This evaluation must confirm the student’s:
- Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds
- Ability to reach overhead
- Ability to stand or walk for extended periods
COVID-19 Vaccination
While COVID-19 vaccination is not currently a program admission requirement, clinical partners may require proof of full vaccination. Clinical placement opportunities may be limited for students who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Ongoing Professional Requirements
Maintaining certification as a service technician necessitates adhering to annual requirements, including background checks and updated immunizations. This ongoing commitment ensures patient safety and professional competence. By fulfilling these prerequisites and maintaining ongoing compliance, aspiring service technicians can embark on a successful career path in this vital healthcare field.
