Elevating SPD Training: Best Practices Insights from an SPD Educator

  

Martin Li, MA, CRCST, CER, CIS, CHL

Introduction

Designing effective Sterile Processing Department (SPD) training and education programs is crucial for maintaining high standards and ensuring competency. From frequency to credibility, each aspect plays a vital role in the success of the programs. Here are key insights and best practices from an SPD educator's perspective.

Frequency

A successful training and education program must be frequent and regular:

• Annual: According to the Joint Commission, annual training and education are required to support and maintain competency.
• Monthly: Monthly in-services are essential to keep teams well-versed in their instrumentation and the equipment used throughout the department [2].

Reviewing and Revising

Regular review and revision of training and educational materials are critical:

• All materials should be reviewed and revised at least annually to ensure accuracy and relevance.
• Revisions are necessary whenever a device changes, is replaced with a newer model, or when a new instrument or piece of equipment is introduced. Establishing a process to flag needed revisions can ensure timely updates [1].

Vendor In-Service

When updating equipment:

• Request a no-charge quote resulting in a no-charge purchase order from the vendor. This can trigger the inquiry into whether training or educational resources need updating or if an in-service from the vendor needs to be scheduled [2].

Retention

Retention of training material is critical for its effectiveness:

• Regular Competency Checks: More frequent competency checks beyond the annual minimum can help identify and address retention concerns early.
• Coachable Moments: Frequent engagement with the team can create opportunities to address struggles and reinforce training.
• Ensure Uptake: Address avoidance of complex topics or equipment by identifying the root cause of insecurity and providing targeted support [2].

Credibility

Ensuring the credibility of training materials is essential:

• Vendors: Many vendors provide reliable training and educational materials, including free continuing education (CE) tools.
• Applying Knowledge: Review and verify the credibility of resources personally as an educator or manager.
• Collaborate: Managers and educators should collaborate to assess the adequacy and credibility of training materials together [1].

Conclusion

Adhering to best practices in SPD training and education can maximize the effectiveness of the resources used in the department. Key items to keep in mind include:

1. Frequency and Regularity: Annual competency training and assessments are essential for compliance and efficiency.
2. Review and Revise: Regular updates to training materials ensure they remain relevant and accurate.
3. Retention: Effective training requires ensuring that the team retains the knowledge and skills learned.
4. Verify Credibility: Use reliable resources and collaborate to determine the best materials for your department [3].

By following these guidelines, SPD departments can maintain high standards and ensure their staff are well-trained and competent.

References

1. belimed.com - Strategies for Building an SP Education Program
2. steris.com - SPD Staffing & Training - Sterile Processing
3. myhspa.org - PROCESS Online - Healthcare Sterile