Certified Instrument Specialist certification achieved by Colocho
Artesia General Hospital is celebrating one of its own, as Bobby Colocho, a dedicated member of the Sterile Processing Department, has achieved his Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) certification. This respected certification, offered by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), is a significant milestone in the field of surgical instrument processing and is recognized across the healthcare industry for its rigorous standards.
Colocho, spent many hours honing his skills to meet the stringent requirements of the certification. His journey to CIS certification was no easy feat—it required extensive hands-on experience and an in-depth knowledge of instrument decontamination, assembly, and sterilization processes. To qualify for the exam, he completed over 200 hours of practical experience, which included on hands practice in instrument decontamination, assembly, and instrument management. He also spent time observing surgical procedures, gaining valuable insights into the critical role of sterile processing in operating room success.
“We are incredibly proud of Bobby for earning the Certified Instrument Specialist certification. This certification shows his dedication to the field and their commitment to providing the highest level of care and safety for our patients. Bobby has always been a valuable member of our team, and this achievement further reinforces their expertise and professionalism. We are fortunate to have such a skilled and motivated professional leading the way in our sterile processing department.” said Perioperative Services Director Rebeca Nesse.
The CIS certification is widely regarded as a mark of excellence in the healthcare industry. By obtaining it, Colocho has demonstrated advanced knowledge of surgical instrument reprocessing, making him a key asset to the hospital’s infection prevention and patient safety efforts.
For Colocho the CIS certification is not just a professional achievement but a personal one as well. “I’ve always believed that continuing education is essential in our field, and I wanted to expand my knowledge to provide the best care possible,” he shared. “Earning the CIS certification was challenging, but it was also incredibly rewarding. I am grateful for the support of my team and the opportunity to contribute to the safety and quality of our healthcare services. I look forward to applying what I’ve learned and continuing to grow in my role.”
Colocho’s certification marks a significant achievement, not just for him personally, but for the hospital as a whole. As healthcare facilities nationwide face challenges in retaining skilled personnel, certifications like CIS play a critical role in ensuring staff competency and elevating patient care.
With his newfound knowledge, Colocho plans to mentor others in his department who may be considering a similar path to earning the CIS. His achievement is an inspiring reminder of the dedication of healthcare workers in the community and the expertise that exists at Artesia General Hospital.