Hudson Crossing Surgery Center (HCSC) in Fort Lee, New Jersey, is a multi-specialty surgery center that offers a variety of procedures, including sports medicine, spinal fusions, and cataract surgeries. The team also handles delicate cases like pediatric surgeries, according to Sterile Processing Department Lead Technician Alfonso Rodriguez. “One of our greatest sources of pride is our work with endoscopes,” Rodriguez said. “Our SPD department, while small, is highly efficient and equipped to tackle all sterilization needs.” The team consists of Rodriguez, and technicians Darius Rankin, Ronnie Ella and Jody Campbell.
Each team member is highly trained, with some certified as CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician), and some seeking additional certifications as CHL (Certified Healthcare Leader) and CER (Certified Endoscope Reprocessor). (For more information on these certifications, see the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association’s website.) “Jody Campbell is our newest addition,” Rodriguez said, “and has already integrated seamlessly into the team.”
Some of the elements that make the Hudson Crossing team so effective include their talent, adaptability, shared values, and leadership, according to Rodriguez. “Each member brings unique expertise to the table, making our team a powerhouse of skills,” he said. “There’s a strong collective sense of purpose within the team, and we carry this through every task we perform. I strive to set clear goals, provide guidance, and inspire the team to stay focused. I empowereveryone to take the initiative and contribute to the team’s success.”
And, of course, trust.“Trust is fundamental to our success,” Rodriguez explained. “We’ve created an environment where each team member feels valued, respected, and supported. By fostering open communication and providing constructive feedback, we have built a team dynamic that thrives on mutual trust. Every member knows they can rely on each other, and that sense of camaraderie strengthens our performance.”
Hudson Crossing boasts a dedicated decontamination room that includes air and RO water hoses, a leak-testing machine to ensure insulation integrity, a Scope Buddy Plus machine for step-by-step cleaning, a CT digital borescope (scope inspector) for visual inspection, a protein tester kit for the inner chamber, a Medivators DSD Edge automated endoscope reprocessing system for high-level disinfection, and an Innerspace cabinet for safe drying and storage of endoscopes.
“Our team ensures that each endoscope is meticulously cleaned, inspected, and sterilized before returning it to the drying cabinet,” Rodriguez said.
He believes chemistry between team members is essential to a team’s success. While it can sometimes be a challenge, he said, “I believe that knowing how to handle weaknesses and embracing our differences helps create a supportive environment. I’ve worked with the team to ensure we approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset, fostering a culture of mutual respect. This has allowed us to overcome numerous obstacles, particularly when dealing with high-pressure situations or tight deadlines.”
Team member Darius Rankin said Rodriguez’s leadership makes a positive difference. “Alfonso has been a true leader to our team,” he said. “He’s always available to provide guidance, whether it’s on a technical issue or just offering support during a tough day. His calm and organized approach helps keep everyone grounded, even when we’re under pressure. I’ve learned so much from his leadership, especially how important it is to lead by example. He sets the bar high and encourages all of us to continually strive for excellence.”
But Rodriguez said he learns from his team, too, and one of the most important lessons is the value of continuous learning and adaptability. “In our field, things change quickly—whether it’s new technology, new procedures or new challenges. We all embrace this philosophy of lifelong learning, which helps us stay at the top of our game. Additionally, we all take pride in creating a safe and organized environment—from ensuring every scope is cleaned and sterilized properly to making sure that communication is clear and concise within the team. This commitment to excellence and attention to detail is what sets us apart.”
