The Medical Device Reprocessing Technician Theory course will provide students with the theoretical knowledge required by MDR Technicians. Students will learn theory concepts and principles in the following areas: Overview of MDR Departments, Professional Practice, Infection Prevention and Control, Occupational Health and Safety, Medical Devices, Decontamination, Disinfection, Preparation and Packaging, Sterilization, Storage and Distribution, Flexible Endoscopes and Quality Systems. This course is based on Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards and best practices for safe and effective sterilization of reusable medical devices in Canada. CSA recognizes VCC as an approved MDRT training provider. Students who meet CSA requirements may be eligible to write the optional CSA Canadian Certification exam to become a Certified Medical Device Reprocessing Technician (CMDRT). Please refer to CSA website for specific requirements. Please note: This course is open to anyone, however it does not include a practicum or clinical and is not accepted for employment in the Lower Mainland of BC. Registration is on-going for this course, and students can start anytime. Once registered, students will receive a welcome email with course instructions. Regular check-ins and assistance with the course content will be available from a course facilitator. The course is delivered online through the Moodle Learning Management System. Students have one term (four months/16 weeks) to complete the course. Extensions may be permitted in extenuating circumstances. This course is self-directed, and students work through the course content on their own schedule. Online learning requires students to have a computer with Internet access, a web browser and access to a webcam. The mid-term and final exam are written online with an online proctor. Students who are new to MDR are encouraged to arrange a site tour or job shadowing in their local hospital MDR department. This is not a requirement, however it would be beneficial to new students.

This course gives students the theoretical knowledge required to work as entry-level Medical Device Reprocessing (MDR) Technicians. With an emphasis on quality assurance and patient and workplace safety, students are introduced to the role, context and function of the MDR Department and the responsibilities, duties and tasks of the MDR Technician. Students learn the principles of microbiology and infection prevention and control within the MDR Department and how to clean, disinfect, sort, inspect, assemble, wrap and pack, sterilize, and redistribute medical and surgical devices, and patient care equipment.

This instructor lead practicum provides students with an opportunity to apply the skills, knowledge and experience in the decontamination, preparation and packing, sterilization, and storage & distribution storage areas of hospital MDR Departments. Learners are partnered with working technicians and are provided with the opportunity to practice skills and develop basic competencies in all areas. Student learning is supported through daily post- clinical conferences, journaling, and learning activities to facilitate integration of knowledge and skills.