Our Mission At Work : Preventing Infections and Saving Lives , One Instrument at a Time
Clean instruments are essential to provide safe care to our patients . The Sterile Processing Department ( SPD ) serves that foundational , yet critically important role . Day and night , SPD team members ensure that the instruments and devices used to treat , care , and transform patients ’ lives are ready and safe for use . Specialized equipment , such as industrial cart washers , instrument wall washers , Borescopes , steam / pressure sterilizers , and hydrogen peroxide sterilizers , are operated by SPD team members across the system of care . In 2022 alone , this team cleaned and sterilized over 2 million items , including equipment and instruments used in our various surgical specialty areas , as well as throughout our ambulatory care settings .
This year was one of pride for SPD team members across the system of care , in addition to clinical team members in perioperative services who all played a critical role to hone in on the ‘ why ’ of their daily purpose to live the mission of Children ’ s Hospital Colorado . This team-based approach was validated in the processes of adding and upgrading equipment in 2022 based upon the needs of patients , providers and team members , as well as with external surveyor observations .
“ We depend completely on the dedication and commitment of these unsung heroes of the hospital . Unsung , because they work in their own clean , isolated and sterile world to give the rest of us the tools we need . Only with their support can we provide the great care the kids get here at Children ’ s Hospital Colorado .”
– Dr . Michael Handler , Associate Surgeon-in-Chief
It is with deep gratitude , and respect for their humble expertise , that the Division of Patient Care Services recognizes the sterile processing team at Children ’ s Hospital Colorado for the complex task they carry out every day preventing infections and saving lives , one surgical instrument at the time . With their dedication and commitment to patient safety , our surgeons and medical providers can count on clean and safe use of sterile instruments and medical devices . By living the mission , this team contributes to patient outcomes , transforming the lives of patients and families .
22 2022 PCS Annual Report