42. Relations with other health units in the CME

The Sterilized Material Center (CME) is a specialized unit within a health institution, responsible for the cleaning, preparation, sterilization and distribution of all medical and surgical items used in all hospital departments. CME is therefore one of the main pillars for the prevention and control of infections in a hospital environment.

CME's relationships with other healthcare facilities are crucial to the efficient and effective functioning of the healthcare facility. CME does not work in isolation, but works closely with all other healthcare facilities, including surgery, intensive care, nursing, pharmacy, laboratory and even hospital administration.

First, CME works closely with the surgical unit. Surgeons and surgical staff rely heavily on the CME for proper sterilization of all surgical instruments. CME must ensure that all instruments are properly cleaned, sterilized and ready for use prior to each surgical procedure. Any failure in this process can lead to serious infections and complications for the patient.

Secondly, the CME also has an important relationship with the intensive care unit (ICU). The ICU is a high-risk unit where patients are critically ill and highly susceptible to infections. Therefore, CME must ensure that all medical equipment and supplies used in the ICU are properly sterilized to prevent the spread of infection.

Thirdly, CME has a close relationship with the nursing unit. Nurses are responsible for the direct care of patients and therefore use a variety of medical equipment and supplies that need to be sterilized. The CME must work closely with the nursing staff to ensure that all necessary supplies are available and sterilized when needed.

In addition, CME also has an important relationship with the pharmacy and the laboratory. The pharmacy supplies medications that may need to be administered using sterilized equipment, while the laboratory performs tests that may require the use of sterilized equipment. Therefore, CME must ensure that all relevant equipment is properly sterilized and ready for use.

Last but not least, CME has a crucial relationship with the hospital administration. Hospital management is responsible for ensuring that the CME has the necessary resources to properly perform its functions. This includes sufficient staff, adequate equipment and a safe working environment. In addition, hospital management is also responsible for ensuring that the CME complies with all relevant regulations and standards.

In summary, CME plays a crucial role in the prevention and control of infections in a healthcare facility. To carry out its functions properly, the CME must work closely with all other health facilities. This requires effective communication, coordination and cooperation between all parties involved.

Next page of the Free Ebook:

43Role of CME in patient safety

2 minutes