A proactive instrument maintenance and repair program helps prevent issues before they arise ( or develop into more extensive damage that requires costlier repairs , downtime or premature device replacement ).”
● Evaluating the current condition of the instrument inventory .
● Identifying which devices have been repaired previously . If they were repaired , how many times ?
● Understanding the rotation cycle ( weekly , monthly , quarterly ) for each instrument set to be inspected , repaired if necessary , and returned for reprocessing .
● Tracking and documenting repairs .
● Assessing the current repair and maintenance process and asking what is and is not working well for the SPD and its customers .
● Ensuring that SP staff and end users have knowledge about how to safely handle devices and identify issues proactively instead of reactively .
Completing the assessment will help determine whether an in-house maintenance and repair program is feasible or whether an outside provider is the better option . Before selecting a vendor , it is advised to seek competitive bidding ( again , being careful to weigh the cost estimates with the precise services that will be provided ). Bids may include the initial evaluation and repair of all instruments , with ongoing routine maintenance . Whichever program is chosen , the repair technician ( s ) should be able to provide ongoing
education and preventive maintenance training as part of their employment or contracted service .
The cost of properly maintaining instruments is far less than that of procedural delays , extensive repairs and premature replacement of devices — and above all , negative outcomes for the patient . A proactive instrument maintenance and repair program helps prevent issues before they arise ( or develop into more extensive damage that requires costlier repairs , downtime or premature device replacement ). Organizations that proactively adopt a robust instrument maintenance and repair program directly and positively impact productivity , customer satisfaction and profitability .
* Be sure to carefully read manufacturers ’ warranties and contact the manufacturer if further clarification is needed . Some device and equipment manufacturers will void warranties if their products are repaired by another party .
David Taylor III , MSN , RN , CNOR , has served as a contributing author for the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association ( HSPA ) since 2019 . He is an independent hospital and ambulatory surgery center consultant and the principal of Resolute Advisory Group LLC , in San Antonio , Texas .
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