1. Mapping out workflow
An efficient SPD essentially comes
down to two things: process flow
and ease of use — how easily staff
can get to and operate all of the
critical equipment like sterilizers,
autoclaves and decontamination
workstations. When designing the
space, find an open area where
you can strategically arrange card-
board boxes that represent pieces
of equipment, creating a makeshift
space for you and your team to
walk through. This is the only time
you have the ability to determine
exactly how the department's
process flow is going to work and
the physical act of a walk-through
can be invaluable in spotting potential issues and inefficiencies that
you'd never uncover from a 2D drawing or blueprint. For example,
staff members who are moving instrument trays from a decontamina-
tion sink to the instrument washer shouldn't have to walk a long dis-
tance to do so. Why? First, that adds inefficiencies to the reprocessing
process. Second, the trays tend to be wet and can drip on the floor,
creating a potential staff safety issue.
Another pre-planning best practice: Bring in SPD managers and
techs from other facilities to give you some fresh ideas. The thinking
of staff and management who have worked at your location for many
years may be too localized, and some outside perspective could prove
valuable.
3 4 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0
• GO WITH THE FLOW An efficient sterile processing depart-
ment comes down to how easily staff can get to and operate
critical pieces of equipment.
Pamela
Bevelhymer,
RN,
BSN,
CNOR