Only three-fourths validate staff competency for cleaning and deconta-
minating instruments.
There are simple practices that aren't being followed that make a
huge difference in the central sterile department's ability to properly
decontaminate instruments. The cleaning process begins in the oper-
ating room, but that's not being done consistently.
It's your responsibility to get out from behind the desk to ensure
staff is following through on what they have been taught about
proper instrument cleaning. Walk around and see what practices
are being followed. Make a checklist for surgical and central sterile
managers, so they know exactly what to look for during perform-
ance audits. Post performance metrics on a prominently displayed
bulletin board. If, for example, you're sitting at 40% compliance
with following instrument manufacturers' directions for reprocess-
ing, your staff will realize improvements are needed. You'll be able
to show the progress they make in reaching full compliance, which
helps build momentum and makes obtaining the goal much more
likely. OSM
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O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E | January 2015
Dr. Hillanbrand (mary.hillanbrand@usuhs.edu) is an assistant professor and deputy program
director at the Uniformed Services University in Bethesda, Md.
