Spaghetti mapping, or foot mapping, is a powerful tool used to analyze the steps technicians take to complete tasks in a sterile processing department. By tracing movement paths, this method reveals inefficiencies such as unnecessary steps, excessive travel distances, and workflow bottlenecks. The more chaotic the foot map, the clearer the need for process improvements.

In SPDs, spaghetti mapping can measure the time staff spend away from their workstations, the frequency of movement over set durations, and the overall flow of activity. Understanding where productivity time is spent creates a foundation for implementing lean processes and streamlined workflows — ultimately reducing extra steps and saving time.The results speak for themselves.

One hospital applied an Enhanced Kaizen Event in its SPD, achieving a 35% reduction in staff travel distance, eliminating non-value-added processes, and preventing cross-contamination of sterilized materials.

By regularly using tools like spaghetti diagrams, SPDs can maintain lean processes, enhance productivity, and ensure quality and safety remain top priorities. Spaghetti mapping isn’t just about movement — it’s about making every step count.