Few people are aware of the Central Sterile Supply Department (CSSD) at Gisborne Hospital.
But it performs a vital and core function as a tiny amount of bacteria can be life-threatening during surgery.
Every tool used in an operating theatre must be carefully sterilised.
The sterilisation process of each tool is checked and double-checked to prevent infection.
The Central Sterile Supply Department is responsible for providing sterile instruments and other reusable medical devices to all departments in the hospital and clinics, from Te Araroa to Waikohu.
Sterile technician Mary Baker, (Ngai Tāmanuhiri), says: “There’s a rigorous process to follow when it comes to sterilisation and learning about the various instruments and their functions.
“That means ensuring that there aren’t any shortcuts and that processes and practices are consistently followed.
“We’ve always been told that if you’re unsure, ask or do it again.”
Ms Baker has been working as a sterile technician for 20 years and said when she first started in CSSD, it was all new to her.
“I love this job. There’s something different every day.
“As we’re a small team, we move around the different areas of the department from the washing area, to sterilisation, and packaging, which means we need to be skilled in the different functions of sterilisation.
“Training takes place in-house with companies coming in to show us the functions of their equipment.
“You have to have an understanding of how the equipment works.
“At times, we need to pull them apart for the sterilisation process and then put them back together again ready for its next use.”
“As methodical as it is, I take pride in the work we do here in our department.
“People think we’re dishwashers but we’re so much more than that.”
Colleague Jenny Northover said staff collaborated closely with the clinical team and the operating theatre staff to ensure the safety of the instruments used for patient care.
“Our team plays a crucial role in the patient journey.
“All of our staff are highly trained, skilled, and dedicated to always ensuring the health and wellbeing of our patients.
“They all hold their Level 4 NZ Certificate in Sterilising Technology and I’m currently studying to gain my Level 5 NZ Diploma in Sterilising Technology with Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology,” said Ms Northover.
