Infection control in the SPD ensures that instruments are properly cleaned, sterilized, and maintained to prevent the transmission of pathogens to patients and healthcare staff.
Hand hygiene and PPE, such as gloves, gowns, masks, and face shields, are fundamental practices to protect SPD staff and prevent contamination during the handling of soiled instruments.
Biohazardous materials, such as blood-soaked gauze or contaminated disposable items, must be placed in designated biohazard containers to ensure safe and proper disposal as per infection control protocols.
The decontamination area is the first step in the SPD workflow, where soiled instruments are cleaned and disinfected to remove bioburden and prepare them for inspection and sterilization.
SPD design must ensure a one-way flow from dirty to clean areas to prevent cross-contamination. This separation is a cornerstone of infection control in healthcare settings.
