The Need for Proper SPD Training

Abstract

On-the-job training is difficult in any field, but within a healthcare setting it can be particularly problematic, if not dangerous. A formal training program is not only a helpful suggestion, but a necessity in today's complex healthcare environment.The lack of a suitable training program for a sterile processing department (SPD) can lead to many serious problems:This is not an exhaustive list, but it does represent some hazards that can result from an improper or nonexistent training program.There are various reasons why a critical department such as the SPD may be overlooked when it comes to establishing a training program. Individual technicians are often promoted into a management role because they have performed technical tasks well. However, they often have little or no experience with managing people or tasks at a unit level. Administrators may be unaware of the complexities of this key department and may not support it with tangible resources and less concrete needs such as continuing educational opportunities. SPD's relationship to its external customers is not always apparent, so expenditures on non-surgical necessities can go by the wayside in these tough economic times.As you consider rebuilding or initiating a new training program at your facility, here are some questions to consider:When designing the program, develop a goal statement. Consider the primary objectives but also create a set of subgoals to guide you. Design the training program's framework and formal structure if one does not currently exist. Organize training activities and determine the order and sequence of training tasks. As you do this, identify the method of instruction that would best accomplish the tasks. Gather, review, and organize training materials. What reference material will be maintained and how will the content be disseminated? Will takeaway materials be distributed to the technicians? Finally, build quality measures into the program to ensure its success. Consider conducting a pre- and post-test to help demonstrate that the content was successfully conveyed. Review the instructors' approaches and abilities, and train instructors after the assessment is made.Although most of the tough work in getting the program off the ground is over, your work is not done. Keeping the program fresh and relevant, and managing it effectively, is imperative.Here are some other factors to consider as you move beyond implementing a new or modified training program:Sterile processing units and their staffs deserve a training program built around maintaining core competency. The program should fully encompass all of the tasks they will encounter. Managers must prepare their teams for this vital work. Technicians need to stay up-to-date with current information and practices. This can only happen within a unit that fosters a well-honed and continuous training and education program. We owe this to our technicians, but, more importantly, we owe it to the patients who entrust their well being to us each day.