Benchmarking in Colombian Sterilization Departments

Quality tools allow improving health attention processes. Benchmarking is an effective tool because allows recognize success key factors to be replied in a specific sector. The sterilization department is the area in charge of reprocessing the necessary supplies for the care of patients in the institutions providing health services, hence good practices are important in this sector to guarantee patient safety and efficiency in the hospital service provision. This investigation pretends to identify success key factors and high quality in eight sterilization departments in Colombia, from a comparative study. A multiple case study was carried out in recognized sterilization departments, with the application of a comparative evaluation tool based on AAMI and adjusted to the objectives, highlighting quality management, human talent management, information management and technology and process management. Results show the sterilization departments adaptation in quality management, human talent management, information and technology management and process management. Sterilization departments in Colombia are adapting to the quality requirements of the environment, adjusting the operation to be cost-effective and consistent with the reality of the country. Leaders have a challenge to manage with quality and efficiency, although there is still progress in technological development and provide greater resources to the sector, the quality of the process and patient safety are guaranteed.