To establish the framework for the CRCST, CER, CIS, and CHL exams, several focused workshops—each addressing a different aspect of the test development process—are held. The first workshop, a Job Task Analysis (JTA), involves Sterile Processing (SP) Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) defining the tasks, knowledge and skillsets most pertinent to each certification. The results of the JTA are used to create and/or validate the content of the exams and ensure that they accurately reflected changes in the profession. A key component of the Job Analysis is the release of a profession-wide survey completed by hundreds of SP professionals. Survey respondents’ participation helps to determine the knowledge and skillsets deemed most vital to the profession. The SMEs use the survey findings to finalize the exam blueprints.
Certification Program: Test Development
HSPA is a not-for-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors. The Board has established the Certification Council, and granted authority to the Certification Council, to independently make essential decisions related to standards, policies, and procedures of the certification program. These decisions are made independently of, and under no influence by, any other individual or business entity within or outside of HSPA.
TEST DEVELOPMENT
Every 5 years, per industry standards, HSPA conducts a full review and update of each exam. When a full review is conducted, the process begins with a Job Analysis, followed by Test Specifications, a Pilot Exam, and a Cut Score Analysis. Annually, Item Writing, Item Review, and Form Review are continuously conducted on each exam to ensure there is a valid bank of up-to-date exam questions to utilize.
Following each JTA, a series of additional workshops are held: a Test Specifications meeting, which documents the relative importance of each exam’s content areas and how many items should be written to each objective; Item Writing and Review, which involve the writing of new exam questions and the review of the newly-created questions and existing exam questions; Form Review, which involves a final review of the test form and how the questions on the form work together; and finally, Item Analysis, which involves a statistical and analytical review of exam items to help improve the quality and accuracy of the exams.
In-between the Form Review and Item Analysis, a pilot exam is offered for each certification. The performance of pilot exam participants is measured against a predetermined standard. For the CRCST, CER, and CHL standard-setting study, the Angoff standard-setting method—supplemented by the Beuk Relative-Absolute Compromise method—is implemented during a two-day standard-setting meeting facilitated by the Prometric Testing company. These methods use an SME panel to first reach a consensus on the acceptable level of knowledge and skill that is expected for passing candidates. SMEs then review each examination item to determine the level of knowledge or skill that is expected. SME ratings and difficulty predictions are analyzed by Prometric to provide a recommended cut score. Lastly, the recommended cut score is reviewed and approved by the HSPA Certification Council.
Subject Matter Experts
HSPA utilizes Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to assist in the development and validation of its certification programs and exams. SMEs provide invaluable insight on the job and for the profession at-large and are able to thoroughly and accurately discuss duties and responsibilities of a job, knowledge requirements, skill requirements, ability requirements, and other pertinent information. With this expertise, SMEs are able to assist with various phases of the development and validation of HSPA’s tests and assessments.
Subject Matter Experts or (SMEs) participate in exam development activities, such as exam question writing and review, exam form review, and more. All SMEs must hold an active certification that corresponds to the exam type the meeting is scheduled for (i.e. CER Form Review Meeting, an active CER certification is required to participate). Previous attendance at HSPA Annual Conferences, membership with the Association, or involvement with HSPA chapters or committees is also preferred but not required. SMEs serve on a per-meeting basis.
The 2026 Call For SMEs is currently closed. Applicants will be contacted on a rolling basis throughout the year if selected to participate in a workshop. Applications for the 2027 year will open Fall of 2026.
The following exam development activities take place throughout the year for each exam certification on a rolling basis. SMEs are recruited to assist for each of the test development processes as listed below:
Job Analysis
- Identifies the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) required for competent performance in a specific role.
- Serves as the foundation for test content by aligning exam items with real-world job tasks and responsibilities.
Test Specifications
- A blueprint that outlines the structure, content domains, item types, and weighting of each section of the exam.
- Ensures consistency and fairness by guiding item writers and reviewers on what to include and emphasize.
Pilot Exam
- A preliminary version of the test administered to a sample group to evaluate item performance and test reliability.
- Helps identify flawed or ambiguous items before the exam is officially launched.
Cut Score
- The minimum score required to pass the exam, often determined through statistical methods and expert judgment.
- Balances fairness and rigor by defining the threshold for competent performance.
Item Writing
- The process of creating test questions that measure specific KSAs identified in the job analysis and test specs.
- Requires subject matter expertise and adherence to best practices in clarity, relevance, and difficulty.
Item Review
- A quality control step where experts evaluate each test item (question) for accuracy, bias, clarity, and alignment with specifications.
- Ensures that items are valid, fair, and appropriate for the target audience.
Form Review
- A final check of the assembled test form to ensure balanced coverage across domains, consistent difficulty, and no duplicated or flawed items.
- Confirms that the test meets design and psychometric standards before launch.
PIN Call (Post-Item-Need Call)
- A collaborative meeting where stakeholders discuss item needs, gaps in coverage, and priorities for future item development.
- Helps refine the item bank and ensure ongoing alignment with evolving job roles and test specifications.
What are the benefits of being an SME?
Participating as an SME provides a unique professional and personal experience. You will have the opportunity to network with a diverse group of experts from the Sterile Processing industry and build new professional skills for your career. Assisting with the test development process allows you to help define best practices and ensure that HSPA’s certification exams reflect current technologies, regulations, and procedures. Your work as an SME will help ensure that certified professionals are well equipped to ultimately provide the highest patient safety. Additionally, there are continuing education (CE) credits available for SMEs who participate in certain meeting types.
What are the requirements to become an SME?
All SMEs must hold an active certification that corresponds to the exam type the meeting is scheduled for (i.e. CER Form Review Meeting, an active CER certification is required to participate). Additional certifications, such as the CIS or CHL, are also preferred but not required (unless called for by the specific project.) Previous attendance at HSPA Annual Conferences, membership with the Association, or involvement with HSPA chapters or committees is also preferred but not required.
In addition, individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria that ensure impartiality and integrity. SMEs must not be involved in developing or delivering exam prep materials or competing certification programs during their selected meeting term and for two years afterward. SMEs also agree not to take the certification exam during or within two years of their service and must have their employer’s support for the time commitment required.
What are the responsibilities of an SME?
SMEs are responsible for actively participating in committee meetings, completing assignments on time, and contributing thoughtfully to discussions. They must uphold confidentiality, avoid conflicts of interest, and act in the best interest of the certification program and the association. SMEs are expected to follow all relevant policies and represent HSPA with integrity and professionalism.
How do I apply to become an SME?
An application survey is available to all HSPA certificant holders each fall. Applicants are required to complete an online survey form in full, which includes completing demographic information and submitting an up-to-date resume/CV. HSPA reviews all submissions on a rolling basis. The type of meeting(s) available to the applicant varies each year based on the current test development cycle at the time of applying. Applicants selected for a specific workshop/meeting will be contacted directly by HSPA. Please note that due to the high volume of applications we receive each year, only those selected for a workshop or meeting will be contacted.
Is any prior experience needed?
No prior experience is needed to apply. Before each meeting, all SMEs will receive an orientation and any necessary training.
How long is the commitment?
The commitment time varies on the type of meeting/workshop you are selected to attend. SMEs serve on a per-meeting basis. On-site meetings are conducted in Chicago, IL and are typically a two (2) day meeting. Some meetings may be completed online/virtually and can range from one (1) hour to a full day’s commitment.
Is travel required to be an SME?
Majority of the test development meetings are conducted in Chicago, IL, where HSPA is headquartered. Meetings are typically 2 days in length and require travel to the meeting location. If selected for an in-person meeting, HSPA provides round-trip airfare, up to three (3) nights of hotel accommodations and all meals while on-site.
Are SMEs compensated?
SME participation is voluntary and is not compensated. If selected for an in-person meeting, HSPA does provide round-trip airfare, up to three (3) nights of hotel accommodations and all meals while on-site. If you drive to the meeting, valet parking and mileage reimbursement will be covered by HSPA. Additionally, a $150 stipend will be provided to help cover incidental expenses incurred during travel, including transportation to and from the airport.
I'm a vendor and/or educator - can I still participate as an SME?
This will be dependent on the meeting type and specific meeting requirements. If you do not violate any of the eligibility requirements and/or criteria of the meeting/workshop, you may still participate as an SME.
EXAM CONTENT OUTLINES & REFERENCES
REFERENCES USED
- HSPA’s Sterile Processing Technical Manual (9th ed.)
- ANSI/AAMI ST79 (2017)
- AORN’s Guidelines for Perioperative Practice (2023)
REFERENCES USED
- HSPA’s Instrument Resource Manual (1st ed.)
- HSPA’s Sterile Processing Technical Manual (9th ed.)
- Rick Schultz’s The World of Surgical Instruments (2018 ed.)
- ANSI/AAMI’s ST29 (2017 ed.)
REFERENCES USED
- HSPA’s Endoscope Reprocessing Manual (2nd ed.)
- ANSI/AAMI’s ST91 (2022 ed.)
- CDC’s Essential Elements of a Reprocessing Program for Flexible Endoscopes (2017 ed.)
- SGNA’s Guidelines for Use of High-Level Disinfectants & Sterilants in the Gastroenterology Setting (2017 ed.)
- SGNA’s Standards for Infection Prevention in Reprocessing Flexible Gastrointestinal Endoscopes (2018 ed.)
- SGNA’s Standard of Infection Prevention in the Gastroenterology Setting (2019 ed.)
REFERENCES USED
- HSPA’s Sterile Processing Technical Manual (9th ed.)
- HSPA’s Central Service Leadership Manual (3rd ed.)
- ANSI/AAMI’s ST79 (2017 ed. with Amendments A1, A2, A3, A4:2020)
- AORN’s Guidelines for Perioperative Practice (2023 ed.)