By Martin Li, MA, CRCST, CER, CIS, CHL
Figure 1 Photo from careerralley.com
As a Sterile Processing Department (SPD) educator, I’ve
witnessed firsthand the dynamic nature of this field. Becoming a sterile
processing technician (SPT) means entering a continuously evolving career. This
constant change keeps the job engaging and presents opportunities for growth
and improvement.
A Lifelong Career, Not Just a Stepping-Stone
Many perceive sterile processing as a stepping-stone to
other healthcare careers, but it doesn’t have to be. The advancements in
surgical instruments and procedures keep us continually engaged and challenge
us to enhance our methods. I’ve made this my lifelong career because the
innovations in our field make every day a learning experience. I can't recall
who originally said it, but I live by the motto: “Never stop learning as life
never stops teaching, and never stop learning as technologies never stop evolving.”
Adapting to New Surgical Techniques and Environments
The shift of many surgical cases from hospitals to
outpatient surgery centers is a significant change we've had to adapt to.
Surgeries are becoming more complex yet streamlined, requiring us to modify our
processes and stay prepared for any situation. Our role is critical in ensuring
that every instrument is sterile and safe, no matter where the surgery occurs.
Embracing Increased Regulation
The future of sterile processing is headed towards even
stricter regulation. Nearly every task we perform is governed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Association for the Advancement of
Medical Instrumentation (AAMI), and The Joint Commission. These regulations
ensure that we follow precise steps to reprocess instruments accurately and
safely.
Staying Ahead in a Changing Career
The sterile processing field is ever-changing, and staying
ahead requires a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. Increased
regulation means that our attention to detail must be impeccable. We must be
diligent in following protocols and updating our knowledge to meet new
standards and practices.
I Never Regret This Choice
As an SPD educator, I’ve seen how sterile processing
technicians must adapt to innovations and regulatory changes. This career
offers me a fulfilling path with opportunities for growth and lifelong
learning. I embrace the constant evolution, and you’ll find a rewarding career
that plays a crucial role in patient safety and surgical success. I would never
regret this choice.
As an SPD educator, I’ve seen how sterile processing technicians must adapt to innovations and regulatory changes. This career offers me a fulfilling path with opportunities for growth and lifelong learning. I embrace the constant evolution, and you’ll find a rewarding career that plays a crucial role in patient safety and surgical success. I would never regret this choice.
ReplyDelete