It’s easy to underestimate the importance of the role of sterilization technicians behind the scenes in the Operating Room. But the many years of education and experience of a surgeon can be undone if the instruments they use have not been properly sterilized. When a surgeon picks up an instrument to perform an operation, they assume it is safe to use on the patient. But without proper sterilization procedures by well-vetted sterilization techs, they may not know what they are working with.
Surgical site infections account for 31 percent of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs)
three percent of those patients die with 3,500 of those deaths being directly attributed to
The cost range of SSIs is between $10,443 and $25,546 for each occurrence, or more than $4 billion, annually.
Sterilization technicians play a critical role in patient safety. They must decontaminate and deliver instruments; assembling the specific kits or trays each surgery requires. Because of the complex nature of some instruments, attention to detail is critical.
Bacteria are growing increasingly antibiotic-resistant, making sterile equipment even more essential. It’s much simpler to prevent infections, such as MRSA, than it is to attempt to treat it. Because of the importance of the role of sterilization technicians in keeping patients safe, screening and vetting are vital.
Technically, an individual can work in this position with just a high school diploma or a G.E.D., but when you are hiring for this critical position, you should expect more.
This may spread to other states as hospitals recognize the importance of qualified SPDs and ORs to prevent the spread of infection. Surgical Site Infections (SSI) cause injury and death to patients, anger physicians, and cost the healthcare industry untold millions of dollars.
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Sterile Processing Departments are often called the “Heart of the Hospital.” SPD is the area in a hospital or surgery center where cleaning and sterilization[..]
If you have managed SPD, you know the drill: Monday morning, dirty trays are at a minimum and things are generally “caught up”. Each day thereafter, the quantity of dirty
I cannot think of any two departments in healthcare that depend on each other and require teamwork more than the Operating Room and Sterile Processing Departments. So why is it so common to see an “us versus them” mentality?
Not that long ago, Healthcare organizations were reluctant to “invest” in their Sterile Processing Departments. Critical infrastructure and human capital needs were tabled while funding was being utilized [..]
As Perioperative Healthcare Leaders, we can all agree that these are unprecedented times. Staffing and supply resources have rightfully been diverted to care of COVID 19 patients.
Where does the decontamination process begin in sterile processing? First, we have to understand what decontamination is and how important decontamination is to the patient …
During my tenure as a surgical technician, I never gave a second thought to where my surgical instruments came from. The instruments were always sterilized and placed on the correct case carts ready …
This week begins the International Sterile Processing Professionals Appreciation Week. Take time this week to personally appreciate each of your professionals in Sterile Processing.
Sterile processing has a direct and significant effect on surgeon satisfaction, risk, patient safety, revenue, and cost. Disruptions in sterile processing or improper sterilization …
3 Ways to Increase Retention in Your Sterile Processing Department High turnover rates of SPD directors and managers, educators, supervisors, and technicians can have a […]
It’s easy to underestimate the importance of the role of sterilization technicians behind the scenes in the operating room. But the many years of education and experience[..]