Achieving Continuous Improvement in CSSD Management through Performance Measurements using User Satisfaction Surveys and Interventions

The objective of the study was to achieve continuous improvement in Central Sterile Supply Department (CSSD) management through performance measurements using user satisfaction surveys and interventions. A brainstorming session was conducted with the multidisciplinary process improvement team in 2012 on the reasons for dissatisfaction with CSSD services. A baseline survey questionnaire was prepared to assess levels of dissatisfaction for key indicators and to establish target benchmarks for improvement. Charge nurses in the wards were chosen as respondents. The report was presented by the Quality Management Cell (QMC) to the steering committee in the presence of the CSSD managers. Solutions and support were offered to the team for improvement. Similar surveys were conducted in 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 to understand the impact of the changes implemented. The overall satisfaction of the respondents with the CSSD services increased from 54% in 2012 to 89% in 2019, which is statistically significant (95% Cl: -0.56 to -0.25) with value < 0.001. This exercise helped to build a strong team and create a culture of openness in the CSSD. Improvement measures were data driven and other departments like Radiology and Laundry were motivated to embrace the idea of understanding their user perceptions. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of internal user satisfaction surveys as a valuable tool for continuous quality improvement. This exercise proved beyond doubt that regular monitoring improves quality of services.