The processes of the central sterile services department (CSSD) are crucial for maintaining healthcare and preventing nosocomial infections. Against the background of future challenges (shortage of skilled labour, scarcity of resources, …), continuous development of the processes is necessary. One current difficulty is the lack of comparability of process performance between individual CSSDs, as well as the lack of consideration of the performance-determining factors that cause process performance.

The aim of the project is to develop an CSSD-benchmark, taking into account the needs of all stakeholders (CSSDs, DGSV, authorities, operators). Based on this benchmark, individual CSSD processes should be evaluated and optimised. Furthermore, a knowledge database and assistance funtions will support the data-based exchange between CSSDs, for example on processes, organisation and problematic devices or instruments. Based on the data, competent authorities and CSSD umbrella organisations should be able to identify weaknesses and trends at an early stage, initiate countermeasures or create incentives for desired developments (e.g. resource-saving working methods).