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A Complete Defination about CSSD Technician

A CSSD technician’s journey: CSSD recognised and honoured for the profession that it is
By: Susan M. Borden CRCST, CHL, Training Supervisor, Getinge International AB, Getinge Regional Training Center, Dubai, UAE
Hello, my name is Susan Borden. I am one, amongst many, CSSD professionals. What is CSSD, you ask? CSSD is the heart of the hospital. The cornerstone. CSSD is an integral part of a healthcare facility that delivers patient care.
CSSD: ‘CENTRAL STERILE SUPPLY DEPARTMENT’
A CSSD professional has the responsibility of decontamination for each and every surgical instrument and medical device that has been used for patient care in a healthcare facility. Imagine, each and every instrument and medical device. This is not a simple task.
Having knowledge in various aspects of infection prevention and control, medical terminology, microbiology, anatomy and physiology, detailed and various methods for cleaning of medical devices, disinfection, cleaning chemicals, cleaning tools, water quality, inspection and testing, packaging systems and techniques, sterilisation methods and how they function, preventative maintenance, healthcare safety, medical waste, quality assurance, inventory management, tracking and traceability, computer systems ,and international standards and recommended practices… These are the basics. Through theory and practical work is how we develop to become a CSSD professional.
Is this all, you ask? No, it is not. The first step is becoming familiar with healthcare in general and the hospital environment; then patient care, surgical services, and instruments, medical devices and their function and care. We are required to have strong communication skills, be able to multi-task, be flexible and able to adapt to the work environment and/or responsibility changes, new technology; work as part of a team or independently when required, and continually develop professionally.
Appropriate CSSD design is very important, as this will enable us to apply best practice through correct workflow, from soiled to clean to sterile to distribution and/or storage. Environmental controls such as air pressure, air exchanges, temperature and humidity in the designated areas are not the same and if not in place correctly, create a pathway for the spread of infection and pathogenic microorganisms. CSSD requires the correct tools when performing decontamination such as personal protective equipment, instrument cleaning brushes, containment devices, chemicals for cleaning and disinfection, and packaging systems. Clear written information for use and training from equipment manufacturers is a must, and the list goes on.
These products and tools are not of the same quality or type and if they do not or cannot be used according to the needs of the CSSD then there are safety and infection risks to our patients as well as staff.
CONTINUING TO LEARN
I entered into healthcare in 1985 in Canada and began my CSSD career path in 1988. I soon realised I needed to know more than just what a senior CSSD person was telling me to do. When I was instructed to “watch for bioburden”, I replied; “Ok, what is bioburden?” Or, “You can’t enter that room because there may be ETO emission”; “What is ETO?”
I researched and found courses that would enable me to study and learn more about the CSSD and prepare for international certification. Since then, the study options and resources have improved tenfold. Although we are linked closely to Infection Control and nursing, CSSD practice is much more technical and supports with indirect patient care as opposed to nursing that is clinical and direct patient care.
CSSD can be a career pathway. One can begin as entry level, tech 1, 2 and 3, team leader, supervisor, manager, educator or director; or operating theatre- and surgical technologist. CSSD diplomas and certificate programmes continue to develop. Some countries even have CSSD scientific programmes. Webinars and online programmes are also available for the adult working learner; this learning option enables certified technicians to maintain their continuing education units in theory and apply the practical in their daily work environment as well.
For 11 years I was employed as a healthcare worker in Canada, continuing to study, learn, practice, and build on experience, and then the opportunity came my way to go to Saudi Arabia as a CSSD technician in a major hospital there.
I came to Saudi Arabia in 1999 as a Certified Registered Central Service technician, moved on to Certified Healthcare Leadership, went from CSSD Technician to Supervisor to Manager; to education and training, was part of four new hospital projects, three of which I set up, commissioned and managed the CSSD; was an active participant in the quality and infection control teams, as well as the accreditation process.
Now I am in the UAE as a full-time training supervisor, part of a global team that enables and supports me to share my CSSD experience and train with CSSDs throughout the Middle East and Africa.
CLOSING REMARKS
Each and every CSSD I visit is unique in its own way. I meet CSSD staff from all parts of the world. New staff, and those with more years than my own in this profession, but all accepting that in this profession we can never stop developing and learning. In some instances the training I share is new to their CSSD, resources may be lacking to carry out best practice but this does not deter the department staff from trying. I provide some additional support with resource information that may enable their institution to have options for supplies and in turn, the CSSD can implement change.
We (the CSSD) do understand and recognise the responsibility we have for infection prevention and control and are here to ensure patient safety and care. I am so proud to be a CSSD professional. I am truly fortunate and grateful for the opportunities being in the CSSD profession has given me.
While I prepare lessons, continue to visit various CSSDs throughout the Middle East and Africa, and lecture when invited to, I continue my own study, building my knowledge base of international standards so I can best support you in yours. I look forward to seeing you in your CSSD one day.

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