This bill establishes requirements for central service technicians (CSTs) working in health care facilities in Minnesota. It defines a CST as a person responsible for decontaminating, inspecting, assembling, packaging, and sterilizing reusable medical instruments or devices in hospitals or ambulatory surgery centers.

Key Provisions: 1. Employment Requirements: - A CST must pass a nationally accredited exam and hold credentials from a recognized credentialing organization. - Alternatively, a CST may be employed if they were working in this role on or before December 31, 2027. - Newly hired CSTs who do not meet certification requirements must obtain the proper credential within 18 months of hire.

1. Continuing Education:

   • CSTs must complete 10 hours of continuing education annually related to their functions.

2. Exemptions:

   • Health care practitioners, certified/licensed health care professionals, and students/interns working under supervision can perform CST duties without meeting these certification requirements.

3. Employment Verification:

   • Health care facilities must provide written verification of a CST’s employment upon request.

The bill ensures that central service technicians meet nationally recognized competency standards to maintain patient safety in health care facilities.