Don't Confuse Throughput with Productivity In Sterile Processing
- ESP Team
- a few seconds ago
- 2 min read
Throughput refers to the quantity of materials or items moving through a system or process. In contrast, productivity measures the efficiency of a productive effort, particularly in industry, by evaluating the output rate per unit of input.
Throughput
We frequently hear department throughput referred to as productivity. SPD managers often mention the number of trays, among other things, as a productivity metric. However, what's missing is the input factor. While tracking your output can help gauge the percentage of production issues or the total volume produced, it doesn't actually measure productivity.
Productivity
Conversely, productivity gauges throughput by assessing output relative to input. SPD managers might be evaluated using the productivity metric of total hours worked per tray produced. Ideally, fewer total hours worked for the same output (trays) indicates a superior productivity ratio.
Productivity in Sterile Processing
The primary challenge in using SPD to measure productivity as a benchmark is the uniqueness of each SPD. The only consistent metric is instruments. If you are compared against any other factor, you're already disadvantaged due to the numerous variables in different outputs.
Measuring Productivity in Sterile Processing
There is often resistance to the idea of measuring productivity in Sterile Processing. The primary concern is that pressuring staff may lead to quality issues, a point I agree with. However, it's somewhat unjust to equate productivity solely with rushing. Productivity is the anticipated result for a given input. For instruments, we expect SPD staff to safely clean, inspect, or test them within a set timeframe. This allows us to assess an individual's productivity. Nonetheless, setting expectations for trays can lead to unsafe conditions or reduced output.
Variables
When measuring instruments as your productivity metric, it's important to account for various variables. Similar to how equipment problems can impact a department's throughput, other production issues can influence productivity. Some of these issues include:
instrument migration within sets (likely the primary issue in SPD)
Inadequate decontamination practices (whether in the OR or SPD)
Inefficient workstation setups (such as insufficient inspection tools)
poor workflow
Your department's specific challenges will necessitate adjustments to your productivity metric. Research indicates that the average individual is productive for approximately three to six hours per day.
Final Tally
Failing to measure productivity is a financial disadvantage for your company. The output holds significant value. Improved productivity enhances the value of your department in managing patient care. Quality serves as the ultimate measure. It's essential to have both productivity and quality output. By starting to track productivity and integrating it as a regular metric, you can strive to identify the optimal balance in your production model.
At Evolved Sterile Processing, our consultants have a greater focus on sterile processing. With our decades of experience, we will help you develop better processes and educational resources for your staff.