Development of quality indicators for sterilization practices of the central sterile supply department.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To develop quality indicators for assessing the performance of central sterile supply department. (CSSD). MATERIAL AND METHOD: Quality indicators for sterilization in CSSD were searched by literature review and by current situation analysis by 79 infection control nurses (ICNs) and 83 heads of CSSD. Quality indicators were drafted and subsequently validated by 5 experts. The feasibility and applicability of the quality indicators were tested in 37 ICNs and 34 heads of CSSD. The quality indicators were finally refined by a forum of 5 experts and 5 representatives from CSSD. RESULTS: A total of 30 quality indicators were developed. These include 9 indicators for structure, 12 for process and 9 for output of CSSD. The quality indicators were deemed appropriate for the assessment of the quality of CSSD in Thailand. CONCLUSION: Thirty indicators were developed for assessing the quality of CSSD.