Course Description
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the entire instrument life cycle and the critical importance of central sterile technicians. While the goal is to eliminate 99.999% of pathogens, prions, and bacteria, only a meticulous approach will do. Most take for granted that the instruments reaching the operating room are sterile. Central sterile techs are not only responsible, but also need to truly understand how critical their detailed efforts are in ensuring the sterility of the instrumentation and their role in preventing surgical site infections.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of the course, the learner will be able to:
- Explain the critical role of the central sterile department in preventing surgical site infections.
- Outline each step along with its importance in the sterilization process.
- List key practices supporting sterilization processes at each step to deliver the best results.
- Explain the importance of careful handling of instruments, containers, and packs, and the necessity for checks at each step along the way, including after prolonged storage.
- List 3 ways the CST can effectively communicate with the operating room staff to create a healthy teamwork environment.
Intended Audience
This educational activity was developed for central sterile technicians, sterile processing, and nursing professionals.
CE Information
This course is approved for 1.0 contact hour by the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution, Inc. (CBSPD), the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), and the Florida and California State Boards of Nursing.
Course Authors
This course was written by Cynthia Spry, RN, MA, MS.
Cynthia holds both MA and MS degrees in Education & Nursing, with over 30 years of experience in the field of surgical services with a focus on sterilization and disinfection. Cynthia is a member of APIC, IAHCSMM, and AORN, where she was a past national president. She has authored over 75 publications, two nursing texts, and was the lead author for three AORN evidence-based guidelines. She has globally presented seminars on many healthcare-related topics. Cynthia is also a member of several AAMI Working Groups writing and updating recommended practices, including co-chairing the committee responsible for the ST79 Comprehensive Guide to Steam Sterilization and Sterility Assurance in Health Care Facilities.