25/2/2022
Breaking the chain of infections By Barbara Otieno and Lucy Nganga Inadequate sterilization can be costly to hospitals. The Antibiotic-Resistant Bacterial Infection outbreak in 2015, was a consequence of improper sterilization of contaminated duodenoscopes that resulted in 400 people being infected with superbugs and further led to 35 deaths. Emphasis on the importance of proper decontamination methods and increased awareness of Healthcare-Acquired Infections (e.g. Hepatitis B or HIV) after surgical procedures is key. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, decontamination of tools and objects ensures that all pathogenic microorganisms are removed so that they are safe to handle and use on another patient. Centralizing the reprocessing of single-use patient items helps ensure that high standards of sterilization practices are upheld. Decontamination of medium and high-risk instruments that are in contact with a break in skin or body fluids is performed at the Central Sterilization Service Department (CSSD). Single-use items such as hypodermic needles and syringes are not reprocessed in the hospital - they pose a high risk of infection transmission since they cannot be thoroughly cleaned,” explained Mr. Nazarino Kithaka, Senior Nursing Officer, Theatre Sterile Surgical Unit. The success of surgical departments at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) is dependent on the CSSD’S complimentary unit; Theatre Sterile Surgical Unit (TSSU), which is located right next to the main theatres. Ms. Lilian Kabua, Assistant Chief Nurse, Head of Central Sterilization Service Department points out; “The department is the hospital’s backbone, and without it, the dayto-day hospital operations will be disabled.” TSSU’s sole focus is intently
to decontaminate surgical instruments prepared for surgical procedures. The CSSD is mapped out to streamline the movement of items through 4 main central process areas; decontamination, packaging or assembly, sterilization, and
ISSUE 3| Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline
storage. Access to the processing area is strictly controlled and staff has to comply with the department’s dress code policy. They are provided with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) that are laundered and donned at the
PHOTO | BARBARA OTIENO A Supportive staff at the TSSU unloading a high priority set from the autoclave for the Main theatre.
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