We spoke to Nick Brown, general manager of AVM Services as part of National Healthcare Estates and Facilities Day.
As the General Manager of AVM Services within the Capital Estates and Facilities Management directorate at Cambridge University Hospitals (CUH), I lead a team of decontamination specialists who provide critical services to a range of healthcare organisations, including NHS trusts, private healthcare providers, and the pharmaceutical industry. Our primary focus is ensuring that all reusable medical devices, such as endoscopes and surgical instruments, undergo thorough cleaning, disinfection, and decontamination processes. These devices are then repackaged and reprocessed to meet stringent standards, safeguarding patient safety.
Services Provided by AVM
AVM Services offers a suite of essential services to support decontamination activities:
Authorising Engineering (Decontamination) - Consulting and Auditing: We provide expert consulting and auditing services to ensure compliance with decontamination standards.
Validation Services: Our specialists test healthcare decontamination equipment to ensure it meets the Health Technical Memorandum standards set by NHS England.
Training: We offer comprehensive training for engineers who test and maintain decontamination equipment, as well as user and supervisor training for staff in sterile services and endoscope reprocessing departments.
We deliver these services both within our own Trust and commercially to other NHS trusts and private hospitals.
My Journey at CUH
I joined CUH over ten years ago after relocating from Southeast Asia, where I worked as a Commercial Manager in the Oil and Gas services sector. My transition to CUH marked a significant shift, but I quickly found my stride in the healthcare environment.
The supportive and dynamic work environment at CUH has been instrumental in my professional growth, and I am proud to be part of such a dedicated team.
A Typical Day
No two days are the same in my role. One day, I might be working closely with engineers and sterile services staff, addressing their training needs and supporting endoscope reprocessing departments. The next day, I could be tackling complex problems with production planning or collaborating with media specialists to develop new online training courses. I also frequently present our services to trusts across the country, highlighting how we can support their decontamination needs.
A Standout Case Study
One case that stands out involved a private hospital struggling with recurring contamination issues in their surgical instruments. Our team conducted a thorough audit and provided tailored consulting services. By identifying gaps in their processes and implementing targeted training for their staff, we were able to resolve the issues and significantly improve their compliance with decontamination standards. This not only enhanced their operational efficiency but also ensured safer outcomes for their patients.
Impact on Patient Safety
The core mission of AVM Services is to support patient safety. By ensuring that medical instruments are meticulously cleaned, decontaminated, and sterilised according to best practices and standards, we help healthcare providers minimise the risk of infections. This work is vital in maintaining the highest levels of care and safety for patients across various healthcare settings.
In my spare time I enjoy keeping fit by running and often—mostly in the summer—enter half marathons across the UK and sometimes in Europe.
In conclusion
Being the General Manager of AVM Services at CUH is a fulfilling and dynamic role that allows me to contribute to patient safety and support healthcare providers across the sector. The diversity of tasks and the impact of our work make it a truly rewarding experience.