By Martin Li, M.A., CRCST, CER, CIS, CHL
Introduction
Sterile Processing Departments (SPDs) are the backbone of
any healthcare facility, ensuring that all surgical instruments and devices are
properly sterilized and ready for use. Despite their critical role, SPDs often
struggle with inadequate training and lack of updated knowledge on best
practices. This article explores the crucial role of dedicated SPD educators,
emphasizing the need for continuous education and training to maintain high
standards of patient care and safety.
The Importance of Dedicated SPD Educators
Far too often, healthcare facilities fail to invest in their
staff members' education. Busy SPDs struggle to find time to adequately train
and update personnel on the latest technological advances and best practices
needed in today’s SP discipline. It is imperative that SPDs employ an
experienced educator who is actively engaged in day-to-day operations and
observing every aspect of the job (Infection Control Today, 2005). As new
regulations, standards, and guidelines are rolled out, it is essential that SP
professionals are well-trained and capable of delivering the highest level of
service. Without proper training and education, hospitals and health systems
are at risk of experiencing negative outcomes that will cost them money,
jeopardize the organization’s reputation, and, above all, place patients at
risk (Tayor, 2020).
Ensuring Compliance and Safety
The SPD bears a great deal of responsibility, and hospital
and health system executives need to understand that the department is just as
important as the areas of the hospital it supports (ORManger, 2020). The
experience, comprehension, and skill sets of SP professionals can be critical
differentiators in the delivery of quality healthcare. Unfortunately, many
healthcare facilities still fail to invest in developing their SP staff.
Whatever training these professionals do receive is often from the person or
people available on the shift they have been assigned (ORManager, 2020).
Overcoming Inadequate Training Practices
Those assigned to orient new staff may lack formal training
as an educator and may not have received training to validate they have the
necessary knowledge and skills to serve as an effective preceptor. Over time,
the information transferred from one employee to the next can become less
objective, and key steps and processes may not necessarily be covered or even
understood. Employees who learn on the job from existing staff members, as
opposed to a dedicated educator, may pick up departmental processes and habits
that may not be associated with best practices. Additionally, the lack of a
dedicated orientation program limits new employees’ understanding of the
science behind their job responsibilities (ORManager, 2020).
Addressing Production Pressures
Production pressures, the complexity of instruments, and the
unique design of today’s instrumentation and devices used in invasive
procedures make it all the more imperative that SP professionals understand the
science and theory behind what they do, so they are better equipped to make
critical, appropriate decisions throughout the day. To avoid diluting the
science and avoid task-oriented work, healthcare systems should strongly
consider incorporating a full-time educator into their budget to work alongside
the SP leadership team (ORManager, 2020).
Benefits of Having a Full-Time SPD Educator
An effective educator can help the SP team master skills
more quickly and help them better understand the science behind sterilization.
Understanding the “why” makes all the difference in quality outcomes. The cost
of this full-time-equivalent (FTE) can be offset by reducing orientation time
for new employees and helping prevent instrument tray errors and poor
service-related behaviors. In addition, an educator can develop internal
policies and procedures that are easily accessible, provide clear explanations,
and include photos and checklists that explain the processes in
easy-to-understand, step-by-step instructions for all tasks in which the SPD is
responsible (Tayor, 2020).
Developing Competency-Based Training Programs
A thorough evaluation of SP professionals’ capabilities is
an important component when establishing a targeted education program. Knowing
employees’ capabilities and grouping staff members with similar skill levels
will help establish a state-of-the-art, evidence-based education program that
is most efficient and cost-effective (ORManager, 2020). Initial education is
only the first step. Once a program is designed and in place, it is important
to reevaluate frequently and make adjustments as needed.
Continuous Education and Training
Organizations could consider an ongoing educational program
that engages staff at all levels. Leaders should invest in their employees
through a broader educational program, such as through a competency-based
training program, cross-training initiatives, and regularly scheduled
in-servicing and education days. Additional approaches to consider include
train-the-trainer programs and effective use of certified tenured staff as
preceptors (ORManager, 2020). Encouraging and promoting advanced SP-related
certification, conference attendance (local, regional, and/or national), and
providing memberships in professional organizations can incentivize employees
in ways that improve satisfaction and retention and reduce the risk of negative
outcomes ( Tayor, 2020).
Real-Life Applications and Outcomes
The integration of a dedicated SPD educator has been shown
to have significant positive impacts on both staff performance and patient
outcomes. In one case study, a hospital that implemented a dedicated SPD
educator saw a 30% reduction in instrument tray errors and a 25% improvement in
staff competency scores within the first year (ORManager, 2020). This not only
enhanced patient safety but also increased staff morale and job satisfaction,
as employees felt more confident and supported in their roles.
Addressing the Challenges of SPD Educators
While the benefits of having a dedicated SPD educator are
clear, there are also challenges that need to be addressed to maximize their
effectiveness. These include securing funding for the role, ensuring the
educator has the necessary support and resources, and integrating the educator
into the existing team dynamics.
Securing Funding and Support
Securing funding for a dedicated SPD educator can be
challenging, especially in smaller healthcare facilities with limited budgets.
However, the long-term benefits, including improved patient safety, reduced
errors, and enhanced staff performance, can provide a strong justification for
this investment. Healthcare executives need to recognize the critical role that
SPDs play in overall patient care and allocate resources accordingly (ORManger,
2020).
Ensuring Adequate Resources
An SPD educator requires access to up-to-date training
materials, equipment, and technologies to provide effective education. This
includes access to the latest industry guidelines, sterilization technologies,
and continuing education opportunities. Providing these resources ensures that
the educator can deliver the highest quality training and keep staff informed
about the latest best practices and advancements in the field (Dix, K 2005).
Integrating the Educator into the Team
For an SPD educator to be effective, it is crucial that they
are integrated into the existing team dynamics and have the support of the
leadership team. This involves clear communication of the educator's role and
responsibilities, as well as fostering a collaborative environment where the
educator can work closely with staff and leadership to identify and address
training needs (ORManager, 2020).
Overcoming Resistance to Change
One of the common challenges faced by SPD educators is
resistance to change among staff members. This can be due to a variety of
factors, including fear of new technologies, lack of understanding of the
benefits of new practices, and reluctance to deviate from established routines.
Overcoming this resistance requires a combination of effective communication,
demonstration of the benefits of new practices, and involving staff in the
decision-making process (ORManager, 2020).
Measuring Success and Impact
To ensure the effectiveness of the SPD educator role, it is
important to establish clear metrics for success and regularly evaluate the
impact of the educator's efforts. This can include tracking metrics such as
error rates, staff competency scores, and patient outcomes. Regular feedback
from staff and leadership can also provide valuable insights into the
effectiveness of the training programs and identify areas for improvement (ORManager,
2020).
The Future of SPD Education
As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the role of
SPD educators will become increasingly important. Advancements in technology,
changes in regulations, and the growing complexity of medical instruments will
require ongoing education and training to ensure that SPDs can meet the highest
standards of patient care and safety.
Embracing Technological Advancements
The integration of new technologies, such as automated
sterilization systems and digital tracking of instruments, will require SPDs to
continuously update their skills and knowledge. SPD educators will play a
crucial role in facilitating this transition, providing training on new
technologies and ensuring that staff can effectively utilize these tools to
improve efficiency and accuracy (ORManger, 2020).
Adapting to Regulatory Changes
Changes in healthcare regulations and standards will also
necessitate ongoing education and training for SPD staff. SPD educators will
need to stay informed about these changes and ensure that training programs are
updated to reflect the latest guidelines and best practices. This will help
SPDs maintain compliance and avoid potential legal and financial consequences
associated with non-compliance (ORManager, 2020).
Fostering a Culture of Continuous Improvement
Creating a culture of continuous improvement within the SPD
is essential for maintaining high standards of patient care and safety. SPD
educators can foster this culture by promoting ongoing education and training,
encouraging staff to seek out advanced certifications, and providing
opportunities for professional development. This will not only enhance the
skills and knowledge of the SPD staff but also improve job satisfaction and
retention (ORManager, 2020).
Conclusion
Dedicated SPD educators play a critical role in ensuring the
highest standards of patient care and safety in healthcare facilities. By
providing ongoing education and training, developing competency-based training
programs, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, SPD educators can
significantly enhance the performance and effectiveness of SPDs. Healthcare
executives must recognize the value of investing in dedicated SPD educators and
provide the necessary support and resources to maximize their impact.
In the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, the role of
SPD educators will become increasingly important. Embracing technological
advancements, adapting to regulatory changes, and fostering a culture of
continuous improvement will be essential for maintaining high standards of
patient care and safety. By investing in dedicated SPD educators, healthcare
facilities can ensure that their SPDs are equipped
References
- OR
Manager. (2020). How does lifelong learning in sterile processing affect
patient care? https://www.ormanager.com/how-does-lifelong-learning-in-sterile-processing-affect-patient-care/
- Dix, K
(2005). Educating SPD staff. Infection Control Today. https://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/view/educating-spd-staff
- Taylor, D (2020). Investing in educators
& focused SP training promote patient safety. HPN Online. https://www.hpnonline.com/sterile-processing/article/21129877/investing-in-educators-focused-sp-training-promote-patient-safety-better-outcomes
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