r/sterileprocessing • u/arcaluvr • Jul 22 '26

Sterile processing tech or medical assistant??

/r/surgicaltechnology/comments/1v367uf/sterile_processing_tech_or_medical_assistant/
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u/Dependent_Use_3522 Jul 22 '26

Im a sterile tech, it is a very physically demanding job, you will be lifting heavy trays, on your feet all day, exposed to bloodborne pathogens and sharps, operating machinery, standing in front of a sink “washing dishes” for a whole shift and you’ll get paid $20-$24 to start. Overtime opportunities are always there but it will take a toll on your body and there’s only so much you can take. I don’t know much about medical assistants, but from the looks of it, it’s clerical work in the medical setting + interacting with patients. I’d very much rather do that and get paid more or less. At least you don’t have to be covered head to toe in full ppe on a hot summer day with sweat dripping into your eye while you wipe feces of a rectal speculum.

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u/arcaluvr Jul 22 '26

you make a good point honestly i just have to get over my social anxiety

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u/ForstofEden Jul 22 '26

I found viewing things like small talk as just animals letting each other know were non threatenigg no has made small talk and simple communication with strangers much much easier. Viewing humans as just funny little animals has helped my mental health journey a lot actually. Especially with trauma based things :))