HSPA

The sterile processing (SP) discipline continues to advance and evolve, and its essential role in infection prevention and other quality outcomes is more understood and appreciated than ever before. All steps in the processing and device management cycle are critical, and any rushed, skipped or improperly performed step can jeopardize patient safety.

Everyone makes mistakes, but they can have devastating consequences in healthcare, where they can impact patient and employee safety. This is certainly the case for errors made in a demanding, high-risk environment like the sterile processing department, where positive patient outcomes hinge on safe, high-quality practices free from shortcuts and other process deviations.

Sterile processing (SP) professionals strive to serve their customers and patients well, reviewing and applying standards, guidelines and manufacturers’ instructions for use (IFU) and seeking the best solutions for optimal outcomes. Despite those valiant efforts, SP leaders aren’t always preparing their technicians for success in their many vital roles, and technicians may also struggle to recognize where more growth and knowledge are needed to better meet the needs and goals of their department and customers. 

During initial training, sterile processing (SP) technicians become aware of chemical indicators (CIs). They may see them in a package to be sterilized or one that has already undergone sterilization. It is crucial that CIs are understood, used and interpreted correctly (there is more to it than just seeing a color change).

The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) released a new technical information report (TIR) to guide healthcare facilities on the safe external transport of medical devices.

Workplace conflict and communication breakdown within and across healthcare departments is a common occurrence that must be managed promptly and properly. Allowing conflict to fester will erode trust, collaboration and job satisfaction and, above all, can contribute to negative outcomes that affect patient care.