New surgical instruments are being introduced regularly, which requires an advanced technical knowledge that only certification will provide, added Steve Maley, CSPDM, CHL, president of the New York State Association of Central Service Professionals.
“Certification will keep technicians educated on standards-based instrument processing practices so these professionals can perform their jobs safely and effectively while keeping quality and patient safety at the forefront," Maley said.
New Jersey is currently the sole state in the nation to require certification, but legislation has been introduced in Pennsylvania. Numerous other states are actively educating state-elected officials on the central service technicians’ role.
“We are definitely making positive strides," Colacci added. “The next state to pass legislation will likely be the tipping point for many others to follow. This is why education and awareness is so critical."
