Interprofessional Nursing–Sterilization Strategies to Reduce Breaks in Sterile Technique During Clinical Practice
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22399/ijcesen.4707Keywords:
Interprofessional collaboration, sterile technique, aseptic practice, patient safety, healthcare-associated infections, TeamSTEPPS, simulation trainingAbstract
The consistent maintenance of sterile technique is a critical yet challenging component of patient safety, directly impacting the prevention of healthcare-associated infections. While traditional approaches focus on individual competency, evidence underscores that breaks in sterile technique are often rooted in systemic and communication failures within complex clinical environments. An interprofessional collaborative framework emerges as the most effective strategy to mitigate these risks. This approach integrates shared education through simulation, standardized communication protocols like TeamSTEPPS, environmental design optimized for aseptic workflow, and the cultivation of a culture of psychological safety where every team member is empowered to act as a guardian of sterility. By moving beyond siloed practice and fostering a unified, systems-oriented team dynamic, healthcare professionals can construct a more resilient defense against technical breaches, thereby significantly enhancing patient outcomes and care quality.
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