In Focus: Integration and automation in the CSSD

Integration and automation in the CSSD Mark Duro, CRCST, FCS ntegration and automation are two capabilities in the Central Sterile Supply Department (CSSD) that can assist CSSD and OR staff members with improving productivity, accuracy, and quality assurance. Most CSSDs rely heavily on technicians to complete day-to-day functions such as decontamination, assembly, sterilization, recordkeeping, and loading and unloading of equipment such as washers and sterilizers. For those daily, critical functions, electronic interfaces that tie processing tools together can help provide a boost to productivity as well as a higher level of accuracy and quality assurance.

I

The value of integration The electronic integration of devices such as washers, steam sterilizers, high-level disinfection equipment, and low-temperature sterilization technologies provides the means to capture needed quality assurance information. Most of these devices are now sold with the ability to connect to tracking systems to capture data such as final processing load results, instrument set and processing equipment utilization, and other reporting and quality assurance data. Integration in the CSSD is a natural progression in processing as it removes much of the manual data collection requirements and can save time. Integrated systems can help direct a CSSD technician on the proper way to clean, assemble, and sterilize a surgical device. With the click of a mouse and a scan from a barcode reader, a technician can see the contents of a set, tips for assembly, types of packaging material used, needs for biological monitoring, and cleaning and sterilization instructions directly loaded into the system for that particular tray. The value of automation Automation is most commonly used to create a safer, more ergonomically friendly work environment by moving washer racks (also

C10 | AORN Connections

known as manifolds) into washers and assisting with the loading and unloading of sterilizers and ultrasonic cleaners. Automation can also provide significant assistance with instrument turnover time. In most decontamination areas without automated capabilities, a technician decides when to load and start a washer disinfector. In an automated environment, a technician selects a washer rack that is programmed specifically for certain items. After it is configured, the loading, cycle selection, starting, and unloading are handled by the automated unit. Washers that are integrated to tracking systems can also collect washer data results and store any routine washer testing data that has been completed by the technician. In a sterilization area without automated capabilities, a technician performs a number of manual steps before and after a cycle is complete. In an automated environment, a technician can take the sterilizer cart to the sterilization hub, which is a personal computer that is set with a tracking system. The load is then scanned and parked in front of an automated sterilizer that will automatically complete all of the steps and provide confirmation that all items are compatible for the configured load. When the cycle is complete, the automated system will send electronic documentation of the sterilization cycle to the tracking system and prompt the operator for any necessary information. With automation, there is no need to physically load or unload or press sterilizer control buttons. Conclusion Combining integration and automation provides enhanced throughput, employee safety, and enhanced quality assurance and accuracy, which inevitably ensures the CSSD is providing the best service to patients and perioperative staff members. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S0001-2092(12)00951-9

© AORN, Inc, 2012