During the last 15 years, I have been involved in inspecting and training individuals who reprocess instrumentation in medical and dental practices and specialty care centers. ECRI recently listed medical and dental sterilization practices as the #3 hazard for 2020 ( https://www.ecri.org/landing-2020-top-ten-health-technology-hazards). The following list is some of the errors that I have found during the last decade and a half.
Decontamination Area
cross-contamination during the process flow
incorrect dilution of chemicals
lack of proper use of chemicals
high-level disinfection chemical misuse
improper airflow
improper PPE use
improper equipment for cleaning
lack of critical water use
improper cleaning of ophthalmic instrumentation
improper transportation of soiled items
lack of keeping soiled instruments moist prior to cleaning
Preparation and Packaging Area
improper packaging
improper labeling
improper inspection of instrumentation
expired packaging and supplies
Sterilization Area
lack of verification of sterilization cycles
improper loading of sterilizers
improper cleaning of sterilizers
improper shelf life of sterilized items
improper storage of sterilized items
Departmental Administrative Area
outdated policies
lack of instructions for use (IFU)
lack of a quality management system
lack of a continuing education plan
lack of training documentation
lack of an annual risk assessment
improper attire policies
lack of an orientation plan
I am sure I have left out a few findings. To help create a risk assessment for your area, visit OSAP (https://www.osap.org/), AAMI (www.aami.org), or the CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/infectioncontrol/index.html). It is the management teams' responsibility and the owners of small businesses to keep their patients safe.
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.
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