By Sarah B. Cruz
Sterile Processing (SP) is a critical component of patient safety, where outcomes are affected by the adherence to or deviation from established protocols. For those new to the field, it’s easy to assume that processes happen seamlessly, almost automatically. For seasoned technicians, years of experience can sometimes lead to unconscious procedural shortcuts. For others who may never have been taught, the actions of SP technicians are influenced by a carefully structured framework of external and internal components.
Learning Objectives
- Review the various entities and documents that shape sterile processing practices
- Assess how these expectations are integrated into the healthcare facility
- Identify the ways in which hospital policy and practice is upheld in department procedures
About the Author
Sarah B. Cruz, CSPDT, CRCST, CHL, CIS is president and founder of PRETREAT CSS, where she and Sterile Processing professionals work together to create objective-driven goals to advance their professional development. She is an industry speaker, published writer, social media enthusiast, mentor, and CTSPA Chapter President and HSPA Director. Sarah is a Sterile Processing instructor at her local community college and a CS Quality Education Program Development Coordinator in her full-time role.
The CBSPD (Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution) has pre-approved this in-service for one (1) contact hour for a period of five (5) years from the date of original publication. Successful completion of the lesson and post test must be documented by facility management and those records maintained by the individual until re-certification is required.
DO NOT SEND LESSON OR TEST TO CBSPD.
For additional information regarding certification contact CBSPD – 148 Main Street, Suite C-1, Lebanon, NJ 08833
HSPA (Healthcare Sterile Processing Association) has pre-approved this in-service for 1.0 Continuing Education Credits for a period of three years.
For more information, direct any questions to Healthcare Purchasing News (941) 259-0832.
