The Central Sterile Services Department (CSSD) is an essential unit within hospitals and healthcare facilities responsible for the sterilization and processing of medical devices, surgical instruments, equipment, and consumables. These items are prepared for safe reuse by healthcare professionals in operating theatres and other aseptic areas, ensuring infection control and patient safety.

A well-designed CSSD ensures a one-way workflow from soiled to clean areas, minimizing the risk of contamination. Functional zones within the department—decontamination, preparation and packaging, sterilization, and sterile storage—are clearly separated by walls and barriers to maintain hygiene, efficiency, and compliance with hospital infection control standards.