CBSPD Announces New Credential for Assessing Competency of Individuals Processing Flexible GI Endoscopes and Bronchoscopes

The Board of Directors of the Certification Board for Sterile Processing & Distribution, Inc. (CBSPD) announces a new credential for assessing competency of those individuals processing flexible GI endoscopes and bronchoscopes. The CBSPD identified that a credential was needed in this practice setting due to the increasing frequency of use and sophistication of these devices.  The need for this credential is driven by the need for patient safety, process improvement and the risk management issues associated with improperly processed flexible scopes.

To validate the knowledge and skills needed for competent performance in this practice setting, a Job Analysis Survey (role delineation) was developed by a group of subject-matter experts in March 2007 and then evaluated by a peer review group.  This survey will be posted on the CBSPD Web site from May 22, 2007 through June 12, 2007.  To access the survey, visit www.sterileprocessing.org and click on the link for the Flexible Scope Job Analysis Survey. Anyone who is currently responsible for processing flexible GI endoscopes and bronchoscopes is encouraged participate in this survey. Widespread participation will enhance the content of the Job Analysis and ensure that it is comprehensive and representative of endoscopy practices nationally. The resulting data will become the blueprint for the flexible endoscope processing certification examination.  The inaugural exam is proposed for November 2007. 

With this credential, the CBSPD will be the only sterile processing certification board accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies and which offers six credentials. The GI endoscope certification examination will join the technician, supervisor, manager, surgical instrument processor, and ambulatory surgery sterile processing technician certification examinations.

For details, contact the CBSPD via e-mail at: CBSPD@att.net or visit www.sterileprocessing.org

Source: CBSPD