Certifiable: Flexible Endoscope Reprocessors

Initial certification is valid for five years. Recertification requires an accumulation 100 points over the five-year period. Certified flexible endoscope reprocessors are responsible to maintain their points for the entire five-year period. The CBSPD board of directors requires that all continuing education (CE) programs be pre-approved and program content be concentrated in subject areas directly related to the examination outline. The points for recertification can be accumulated through adult or CE courses, as approved by CBSPD.

College courses will be awarded one point per credit hour with completion of the course with a grade of a “70” or better, to a maximum of 10 points per recertification period. Courses should be submitted to the CBSPD for consideration. The course must be taken during the certificant’s five-year recertification period.

Working full-time performing flexible endoscope responsibilities equals 10 points per year. Part-time employment (at least 20 hours per week) equals five points per year. Per diem (at least six days a month) equals three points per year. However, the maximum number of points permitted for employment over the five-year certification period is 50 points.

Other eligible options exist. Check with CBSPD for guidelines.

Flexible endoscope reprocessors now have a means to document their competency. One of the major benefits to certification is that it drives knowledge. Candidates who wish to sit for the examination will study to prepare for the examination. To remain competent, the flexible endoscope reprocessors must maintain their competency through CE and experience. When knowledge and skills increase, performance is improved and so is patient care.

For more information, visit the CBSPD Web site at www.sterileprocessing.org. The CBSPD Inc. gratefully acknowledges Olympus America, Inc. for their support, which made this certification possible.

Nancy Chobin, RN, AAS, ACSP, CSPDM, is the volunteer executive director of the CBSPD and the sterile processing educator for the Saint Barnabas Health Care System in New Jersey. She can be reached by calling (800) 555-9765.