What term refers to how work progresses through each department?

The term that accurately describes how work progresses through each department is "Work Flow." This concept encompasses the sequence of processes and operations that take place to efficiently move tasks or materials from one stage to the next within a department. In the context of sterile processing, understanding workflow is essential for ensuring that instruments and supplies are processed, sterilized, and made ready for use in a timely manner. A smooth workflow minimizes delays and enhances productivity, which is critical in a healthcare environment where patient safety and care are of utmost importance.

The other options, while related to movement or organization in some sense, do not specifically address the organized sequence of steps involved in work processes. "People Flow" might suggest how individuals move through a space, but it doesn't inherently convey the notion of task progression through different operational stages. "Traffic Control" usually pertains to managing the flow of vehicles or individuals, which does not align with work processes. Lastly, "Traffic Pattern" often refers to the layout of movement within a facility rather than the systematic progression of work tasks. Thus, "Work Flow" stands out as the most appropriate term for this context.