A Train of Events

Abstract

What sort of relationship do you have with your Sterile Services Department? Do you know what goes on in that department? Do their staff know what goes on in your department? In making a strong case for recognised training in Sterile Services, Olivia and Frank Waller see an exchange of experiences between operating theatres and SSD as a valuable part of the learning process. Too often separate departments only contact each other when things go wrong. The authors quote a damning judgement from an enquiry following the death of five patients: a powerful reminder of the fact that perioperative care gives only one chance to get it right. Just because you work in theatre does not mean you can ignore or take for granted those departments on which you rely for supplies and services. Get involved, find out and understand what they can do for you and what you can do for them.