On a daily basis, Sterile Processing professionals use chemicals that can cause workplace-related injuries or make us ill over time. Although these chemicals are a necessary part of our jobs, …
Biofilm is “comprised of living cells and a structure to protect them . . . that has potentially infectious material within it.” The structure creates a physical barrier between the …
The quality of our water varies dramatically—by location, season and source—and the presence of impurities can have a significant impact on all aspects of instrument processing. For the safety of …
Like every business, healthcare systems are vulnerable to cyberattack in all of its many forms. For those in healthcare, however, the security of the information we access has special significance. …
Managing loaned instrument sets presents difficulties for even the most organized Sterile Processing departments (SPDs). Hospitals and surgery centers with high procedural volume as well as those performing cutting-edge surgeries …
Surgical instruments require consistent care from use, through processing and storage, and back to the procedural area. This care saves healthcare systems money and, more importantly, assures that practitioners have …
Following manufacturers’ instructions for use (IFU) is among the most important responsibilities of the Sterile Processing (SP) team, and every item in our departments has an IFU—surgical instruments, processing equipment, …
Our skin is not just a thing of beauty. It is our largest organ. It prevents water loss and protects us from infection, allergens and ultraviolet light. Although proper hand …
The chemicals used in Sterile Processing departments (SPDs) pose serious risks, and Alex Hilliker of ChemDAQ, Inc. believes that chemical safety is not discussed enough. In episode 125, host Jon …
In episode 124, host Jon Wood speaks with AORN Senior Perioperative Practice Specialist Amber Wood about how AORN Guidelines address numerous pertinent topics related to Sterile Processing, including challenges associated …
In episode 123, host Jon Wood speaks with Dr. Leo Gordon on the topic of excessive instruments found in Sterile Processing trays. As a physician, Gordon shares his unique viewpoint …
In episode 122, host Jon Wood speaks with members of the KiiP team about sterile barrier wrap, more commonly known as “blue wrap.” Karina Engels from Owens & Minor/Halyard, Amanda …
