Your sterile processing department (SPD) is a critical yet often overlooked component of your hospital’s surgical ecosystem. When SPD issues arise—such as reprocessing errors, delayed trays, or case start interruptions—they can have a direct impact on patient safety, surgical schedules, and compliance outcomes.
In many cases, these issues aren’t the result of individual mistakes. They’re symptoms of deeper operational inefficiencies, staffing limitations, or process breakdowns. That’s where sterile processing consulting can offer valuable support.
So how do you know when it's time to bring in outside help? These are the most common warning signs.
Your sterile processing department (SPD) is a critical yet often overlooked component of your hospital’s surgical ecosystem. When SPD issues arise—such as reprocessing errors, delayed trays, or case start interruptions—they can have a direct impact on patient safety, surgical schedules, and compliance outcomes.
In many cases, these issues aren’t the result of individual mistakes. They’re symptoms of deeper operational inefficiencies, staffing limitations, or process breakdowns. That’s where sterile processing consulting can offer valuable support.
So how do you know when it's time to bring in outside help? These are the most common warning signs.
The infographic below highlights key indicators that your SPD may be under strain. These include:
If one or more of these issues sound familiar, it may be time to evaluate your SPD's staffing structure, process design, and performance visibility. A consulting partner can provide an objective review and introduce proven strategies to streamline operations, improve compliance, and relieve pressure on your clinical teams.
See how we helped improve efficiency and reduce filebacks at a major health system.
A sterile processing consulting team brings deep operational knowledge to help hospitals:
Assess SPD workflows and instrument turnaround processes
Identify sources of inefficient operations and recurring compliance risks
Provide perioperative staffing solutions to stabilize the team
Reinforce best practices based on CDC sterilization guidelines and AAMI standards
Establish data-driven performance metrics and reporting
Implement change management strategies to support sustainable improvement
Consultants can also help build alignment between the SPD and the operating room, reducing miscommunication and improving overall surgical efficiency.
Explore how we supported a system-wide transformation across an IDN.
Even with strong leadership, an SPD’s success depends on the capabilities and training of its technicians. From handling delicate instrumentation to maintaining strict sterilization protocols, the demands of the role require highly skilled individuals.
If your department is struggling with high turnover, increasing surgical delays, or compliance concerns, it's worth evaluating whether expert guidance could make a difference. At Surgical Solutions, we work with hospitals and health systems to optimize sterile processing through:
Customized sterile processing consulting engagements
On-site and remote support for staff education and workflow optimization
Real-time visibility into OR and SPD metrics
Long-term partnerships that improve outcomes and reduce operating costs
At Surgical Solutions, we go beyond traditional sterile processing consulting by combining strategic expertise with full-service, on-site operational support.
As a long-term partner—not just an advisor—we don’t stop at recommendations. We stay to implement, manage, and continuously improve your SPD operations.
Our ISO 9001 certification reflects our commitment to quality, consistency, and compliance. With a customizable, hands-on approach, we help hospitals turn sterile processing from a chronic challenge into a source of operational strength and confidence.
Learn how we helped a hospital system improve efficiency and patient care through our consulting approach.
Ready to strengthen your SPD?
Contact us to schedule a consultation.