Jayne-Anne Webb SSD Manager

What we do

Our team plays a vital role in patient care, however, like most support services, whilst the results of our work are recognised, not much is known about how we do it.

With approximately 29 team members comprising technicians, and stores and administration personnel, our main function is to decontaminate re-usable surgical instruments.  This involves a combination of processes - cleaning, disinfection and/or sterilisation - to ensure that equipment is safe to use on patients.

For decontamination to be fully effective, all stages of the life cycle - from purchase to disposal - need to be controlled.  This is done through quality and tracking systems, planned maintenance and validation of machinery.

The surgical teams at the hospital cover a large number of specialities, such as general, orthopaedic, laparoscopic (keyhole), ophthalmic and gynaecological surgery.  As a consequence, there are over 700 different sets of surgical instruments available for use in theatres and clinical areas.  Some procedures require 3-8 different sets/trays of instruments.

We process over 900 trays of instruments, 1300 single instruments and 2500 supplementary packs per week to the West Suffolk Hospital, Local Health Partnership Trusts, and GPs in the surrounding areas.

In addition to decontaminating re-usable medical devices, we also supply disposable items such as dressings, drapes and polyware.

Mission Statement

To provide the best service possible to our clients, using the latest technology to ensure consistantly high quality standards for our patients.

 Aims

• Phasing in the new rosta and staffing structure to coincide with increased Theatre activity

• Introduction of Theatre tray tracking, including staff training

• Installation of new washer/disinfectors, associated training and building alterations

Our department structure