What is CSA's CMDRT?
The CMDRT (Certified Medical Device Reprocessing Technician) is a voluntary certification program for personnel involved in reprocessing (decontaminating, cleaning, sterilizing) re-usable medical devices. Its goal is to protect patients and to promote safe and effective practice.
Who Needs to be Certified?
Anyone who reprocesses re-usable medical devices should seriously consider this valuable credential (primary health-care facilities, private clinics, dental surgeries, etc.)
What if I'm already Certified?
CSA does not recognize the equivalency of other certifications. There is no way for CSA to verify the competency of personnel certified under competing schemes.
What is the Value of the CMDRT?
For practitioners, the value of the CMDRT is being able to demonstrate and to be recognized for competency in all areas of medical device reprocessing. The CMDRT is a national, third-party credential that is fully portable and entitles certificate-holders to use the designation "CMDRT".
For employers, the value of the CMDRT is the knowledge that holders of the certification are knowledgeable and competent in all areas of medical device re-processing. The body of knowledge tested was developed by subject matter experts and supported by industry, practitioners and other stakeholders from across Canada. This is a national, third-party certification, based on Canadian standards and best practices.
Is this a Canadian Certification? Who is CSA America?
The CMDRT is a Canadian credential, developed by and for Canadians (although we are looking to develop an international certification). It is administered by CSA's American subsidiary in accordance with the ISO 17024 standard for personnel certification.
How do I get the CMDRT Training?
Various colleges and associations across Canada offer courses in reprocessing medical devices, either full or part-time, in class or through distance education.
Does CSA offer Exam Preparation Courses?
CSA does not offer exam preparation courses; however, the recommended resources and the examination blueprint are available in the candidates handbook.
Are there any Prerequisites to Writing the Exam?
Yes. There are two options by which a candidate can qualify to write the CMDRT exam:
OPTION 1:
1. Education: High School Graduate or equivalent (e.g. GED). AND
2. Successful completion of a recognized medical device reprocessing educational program. The
educational program should include courses related to the following: Quality Systems, Infection
Prevention and Control, basic microbiology, Occupational Health and Safety, Decontamination
Processes, High Level Disinfection, Assembly, Sterilization of Medical Devices, Storage,
Transportation and Distribution, and Flexible Endoscopes. AND
3. Experience: Successful completion of a practicum and/or work experience in medical device
reprocessing totaling a minimum of 500 hours. Evidence of experience shall be provided via a
performance checklist.
OR
OPTION 2:
1. Four thousand (4000) hours work experience in medical device reprocessing within the last 5 years
(equal to approximately .4 full time equivalent).
Evidence of experience shall be provided via a performance checklist
How Long Does the Certification Last?
Certification is good for a 5-year period
How Do I Renew my Certification?
Renewal is through evidence of continuing education or by successfully re-writing the certification exam and paying the renewal fee of $263.00
How Much Does Certification Cost?
Certification costs are as follows:
Application fee (non-refundable) |
68.00 |
Exam and Certification |
195.00 |
Total |
$263.00 |
More detailed information on the CMDRT can be found in the candidates handbook, available for download from the CSA Standards website at: www.csa-america.org/personnel_certification/cmdrt/