Distinguishing high-performing reprocessing and sterilization services
A recent public opinion survey commissioned by Accreditation Canada revealed that when it comes to health care, Canadians are now more concerned about patient safety than about access. It is not surprising then that the vital role played by Medical Device Reprocessing (MDR) departments in preventing infection, keeping patients safe, and reducing organization risk is receiving greater recognition.
Accreditation Canada, in partnership with CSA Standards, has developed a Distinction program that offers a highly specialized assessment of MDR services. The program builds and expands on the Reprocessing and Sterilization of Reusable Medical Devices Standards that are already part of Accreditation Canada’s Qmentum accreditation program.
Accreditation Canada’s Reprocessing and Sterilization Services Distinction program considers five factors when deciding whether an organization has achieved Distinction:
- Achievement of national standards of excellence
- Achievement of thresholds for performance indicators
- Implementation of protocols or clinical practice guidelines
- Commitment to excellence and innovation in the service area
- Other additional requirements tailored to the specific program type
Standards of excellence
The Reprocessing and Sterilizations Services Distinction program standards address key components of service delivery including:
- MDR service and department design
- Training, education, and competency
- Policies, procedures, and manufacturers’ instructions
- Occupational health and safety requirements
- Computerized inventory management systems
- Selection, installation, and maintenance of reprocessing equipment and medical devices
- Cleaning and disinfection of medical devices
- Sterilization of medical devices
- Storage and transportation of medical devices
- Recall procedures
- Risk and quality management
Performance indicators
Distinction performance indicators identify critical aspects of high quality reprocessing and sterilization services. Organizations have to achieve thresholds for all required performance indicators according to established timeframes.
Protocols
Implementing reprocessing and sterilization protocols is a key component of service excellence. Using protocols helps reprocessing and sterilization services remain consistent, high quality, and evidence-based. The implementation of protocols is evaluated as a formal part of the on-site visit schedule.
To achieve the Distinction award, organizations must adopt and consistently follow the set Distinction program protocols or practice guidelines.
Excellence and innovation
Organizations are asked to demonstrate their commitment to excellence and leadership by highlighting innovative reprocessing and sterilization projects or initiatives they have implemented. Notable for what they contribute to the field, these ventures must be evidence-based, focused on quality, evaluated regularly, and applicable in other organizations.
Further information
For more information, e-mail LearnMore@accreditation.ca.