Improving sterile processing practices in Cambodian healthcare facilities

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Infection Prevention and Control
• Healthcare Quality Improvement

Background:

• Substandard sterile processing in low-resource settings correlates with higher post-operative infection rates.
• Previous training initiatives in Tanzania and Ethiopia showed significant improvements in sterile processing practices.
• Safe surgical care is critically dependent on effective sterile processing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a sterile processing training program in a Southeast Asian country.
• To evaluate improvements in sterile processing conditions and practices in both urban and rural healthcare facilities.
• To determine the effectiveness of the training in a real-world, multi-facility setting.

Main Methods:

• A 2019 mixed-methods study in Cambodia involved 8 facilities and 43 healthcare workers.
• Quantitative data collected via sterile processing assessment tool and knowledge tests (pre- and post-training).
• Qualitative data gathered through interviews several months after training completion.

Main Results:

• Training demonstrated a statistically significant and sustained improvement in sterile processing knowledge over 4-6 months.
• Healthcare facilities achieved an aggregate 36% improvement in sterile processing benchmarks.
• Participants reported increased knowledge and confidence, though rural participants noted implementation barriers due to lack of support.

Conclusions:

• The sterile processing training program successfully enhanced practices in both urban and rural Cambodian facilities.
• Effective implementation requires administrative engagement, adequate funding, and governmental accountability for adherence to standards.
• Addressing systemic barriers is crucial for sustained improvements in sterile processing globally.