Application of Tiered Training Model in Personnel Management of the Central Sterile Supply Department: A Retrospective Controlled Study.

AIMS/BACKGROUND: The Central Sterile Supply Department (CSSD) is a critical component of hospital infection control, and the quality of its work directly impacts patient safety. Given that traditional training models struggle to accommodate differences in staff competency levels, this study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a tiered training model in CSSD personnel management. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted using the same group of staff members. Traditional standardized training was implemented during the control period (2024), while tiered training based on job competency was implemented during the observation period (2025). Based on competency assessments, staff were categorized into basic, proficient, core, and management & guidance levels, and targeted training courses were implemented accordingly. The effectiveness of the tiered training model was evaluated by comparing knowledge levels, core skills, work quality indicators (including process quality, outcome quality, and service efficiency), as well as internal and external satisfaction between the two periods. RESULTS: During the observation period, staff knowledge scores were significantly higher than those in the control period (81.86 ± 5.23 vs. 70.71 ± 8.52, p < 0.001), and scores for various operational skills also improved significantly (p < 0.001). Process and outcome quality indicators, including cleaning qualification rate and sterilization qualification rate, showed significant improvements (p < 0.05). Service efficiency indicators, including retrieval time, preparation, and replenishment times, were also significantly reduced (p < 0.001). Additionally, internal and external training and service satisfaction scores were significantly higher during the observation period (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The tiered training model can effectively improve the knowledge and technical competencies of CSSD staff, enhance work quality and service efficiency, and increase internal and external satisfaction. This model represents a precise and efficient personnel training and management strategy that accommodates differences in staff capabilities and may have potential for widespread application in the future.