R432-100-35. Central Supply Services

  (1) The central supply service supervisor shall be qualified for the position by education, training, and experience.

  (2) The hospital shall provide space and equipment for the cleaning, disinfecting, packaging, sterilizing, storing, and distributing of medical and surgical patient care supplies.

  (a) A hospital central service area shall provide for the following:

  (i) A decontamination area which shall be separated by a barrier or divider to allow the receiving, cleaning, and disinfection functions to be performed separately from all other central service functions;

  (ii) A linen assembly or pack-making area which shall have ventilation to control lint. The linen assembly or pack-making area shall be separated from the general sterilization and processing area.

  (iii) The sterilization area shall contain hospital sterilizers with approved controls and safety features.

  (b) The accuracy of the sterilizers' performance shall be checked by a method that includes a permanent record of each run.

  (c) Sterilizers shall be tested by biological monitors at least weekly.

  (d) If gas sterilizers are used, they shall be inspected, maintained, and operated in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.

  (3) The storage area shall be separated into sterile and non-sterile areas. The storage area shall have temperature and humidity controls, and shall be free of excessive moisture and dust. Outside shipping cartons shall not be stored in this area.

  (4) During each shift that the central service area is staffed, counter tops and tables shall be wiped with a broad spectrum disinfectant.

  (5) All apparel worn in central supply shall be issued and laundered according to hospital policy.