PROCESS THIS, Podcast by IAHCSMM

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, detergents, disinfectants, and cleaning tools. Although critical for device care and patient safety, IFU do not have a standardized format or common layout. Each document looks different, which can make the process of trying to follow IFU feel Intense, Frustrating and Unclear. In episode 128, host Jon Wood speaks with Randalyn Harreld of SteelcoBelimed about decoding IFU. Harreld describes most IFU as having “endless amounts of information.” In addition to the cleaning and sterilization sections, she identifies key components of IFU, including contraindications, preparation for use, and handling and storage. Harreld explains the term “compatibility matrix” and the differences between verification and validation. She also emphasizes the importance of looking for and following all cautions and warnings. Finally, Harreld offers strategies for housing and managing access to IFU. Listen in to learn how to better understand—and properly use—your IFU. Earn CE Now

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 hygiene is essential to the work of Sterile Processing professionals and the safety of our patients, breaks in the skin barrier can occur due to over washing and exposure to hot water, harsh chemicals and PPE. Our skin health, however, parallels our body health, so it is essential that we take care of it. In episode 127, host Casey Czarnowski speaks with dermatologist, author and consumer advocate Fayne L. Frey, MD, about the importance of protecting our skin. Dr. Frey reviews the anatomy and functionality of the skin and shares habits to keep your skin safe, especially outside of work hours. She discusses skin ailments, provides tips for listeners with sensitive skin, and decodes the buzzwords on skincare product labels. Tune it to learn how to maintain healthy skin and select safe, effective, affordable products sold at your local drugstore. Earn CE Now

Data drives improvement in business, and healthcare is no exception. With the effective use of a quality management system (QMS), Sterile Processing (SP) professionals can use data they already collect, including sterilizer printouts and biological monitoring, to improve processes and make their work more efficient and accurate. In episode 126, host Casey Czarnowski speaks with Hannah Schroeder of Pure Processing about QMS in the Sterile Processing department (SPD). Schroeder provides a high-level introduction to the QMS process. She discusses its key components, ways to incorporate a QMS in various areas of the SPD, relevant standards and guidelines, and diverse strategies for measuring QMS effectiveness. Listen to learn how a QMS can reveal trends and help SP leaders advocate for resources, such as additional staff, equipment or space. Hannah Schroeder, Clinical Education Specialist, Pure Processing In her current role, Hannah Schroeder brings her passion and experience in sterile processing to the forefront. Schroeder began as a technician in 2017 and became an education coordinator after progressing through various, advancing roles. Her expertise covers areas such as process improvement, recruitment, education and construction project management. She strives to raise awareness and advocate for the needs and education of professionals in the instrument reprocessing profession. Sponsored by Pure Processing Pure Processing is an innovator and manufacturer of sterile processing and endoscope reprocessing technologies. The company focuses on ergonomic solutions that support SPD and GI teams in their effort to keep patients safe. By collaborating with customers and maintaining a deep understanding of industry standards and guidelines, Pure Processing develops solutions truly designed to meet the unique needs that come with instrument and endoscope reprocessing. Earn CE Now

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 Wood speaks with Hilliker, who explains the usage progression from ethylene oxide to hydrogen peroxide and glutaraldehyde to peracetic acid. Hilliker discusses the health hazards of working with these chemicals and the regulations and guidelines designed to protect workers from exposure. He reviews exact permissible exposure limits (PELs), methods of environmental and personnel monitoring, and the critical importance of chemical safety training. Earn CE Now

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 with 3D-printed instruments, short-cycle sterilization, overcrowded sets, and more. This podcast answers many questions you may not have even known to ask. Earn CE Now

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 regarding the large quantity of instruments found on the Operating Room back table before, during and after a surgical procedure. He discusses how surgeons have influenced this issue and can potentially help rectify such an excessive waste of time and money. Earn CE Now

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 Benedict from AAMI, Tanya Magana of Ecolab, Jennifer Zeck from Solventum, and Sterile Processing technician Tiffany Reece discuss the importance of consistent standards for wrap. They review what to do when encountering multilayer or potentially compromised wrap and explain how KiiP works to investigate concerns and connect users, experts and manufacturers to identify solutions. Earn CE Now

In episode 121, host Jon Wood speaks with Hannah Schroeder about one of the most important tools in Sterile Processing (SP): workstations. Schroeder discusses the primary functions, evolution and future potential of the SP workstation. She elaborates on the need for a proper workstation to support surgical device inspection, quality assurance and preparation and packaging.   Earn CE Now

In episode 120, host Jon Wood speaks with Frederick Westermeyer about his journey in rediscovering Sterile Processing (SP) after surviving a traumatic medical issue and the resulting infection that lead to an amputation. As an SP clinical educator, Westermeyer has a unique perspective surrounding his healing and adjustment to the new challenges in his life. He also elaborates on the difficulties of recapturing his spark of energy, curiosity and enthusiasm for the SP profession and how he was ultimately able to be successful.   Earn CE Now

In episode 119, host Jon Wood speaks with Sterile Processing (SP) Consultant and Clinical Educator Casey Czarnowski about sharps injuries. Czarnowski explains the dangers of bloodborne pathogens contracted by seemingly minor scrapes, cuts and pokes. These injuries can occur during Operating Room setup and teardown and in the Sterile Processing department (SPD), both in decontamination and on the clean side. To limit the potential dangers, Czarnowski offers considerations for proper sharps education as well as best practices for sharps disposal.   Earn CE Now

In episode 118, host Jon Wood speaks with HSPA's Director of Education Natalie Lind about bullying in Sterile Processing (SP). Lind discusses how the prevalence of bullying in Sterile Processing departments not only breaks down morale but also has direct and negative effects on the quality of patient care. The conversation explores the potential causes of bullying as well as how to recognize that bullying is present in your area and steps to take to resolve it. Earn CE Now

In episode 117, host Jon Wood speaks with Jan Prudent about cultivating confidence among the Sterile Processing (SP) team and helping staff members overcome self-doubt. Prudent discusses strategies for being mindful of team members in order to build a positive work environment. Her suggestions include rounding on team members, periodic check ins, providing genuine encouragement, and taking opportunities to publicly acknowledge individuals for their hard work or extra effort. Earn CE Now

In episode 116, host Jon Wood speaks with Tami Heacock, System Director of Sterile Processing with Lee Health, about instructions for use (IFU) and the daily challenges faced in the Sterile Processing department (SPD). Heacock discusses the wide range of detail levels found in IFU, from the simple to the intricate, and the pitfalls that either version can create, especially when left to individual interpretation. Earn CE Now

In episode 115, host Jon Wood speaks with Jeremy Thompson and Gary Wright, Sterile Processing Educators at the University of Kansas Health System, about the hiring challenges in Sterile Processing and modifying the culture to make employment more attractive. The conversation delves into the focus of the importance of educational opportunities and utilizing a career ladder to incentivize and support all employees. Earn CE Now

In episode 114, host Jon Wood speaks with Barry Pickrem about the contrast between the Canadian Standards Association for Sterile Processing and the standards found in the United States, particularly ANSI/AAMI ST79:2017/(R)2022 Comprehensive guide to steam sterilization and sterility assurance in health care facilities. Pickrem also discusses the work of stakeholders on the technical committees setting the Canadian standards.   Earn CE Now

In episode 113, host Jon Wood speaks with Elizabeth Casey about cultures in Sterile Processing (SP) and the importance of keeping a positive outlook despite the many negative aspects encountered in the field. Casey discusses how approaching SP as part of the surgical team and changing our attitudes about how we care for one another and our patients can improve our outlook and create a more positive environment. Earn CE Now

In episode 112, host Jon Wood speaks with Michele McKinley about the unique possibilities for partnership between the Biomedical and Sterile Processing departments. McKinley addresses how to build this relationship, the opportunities and challenges of collaboration, and how critical this interaction is when considering the best interests and protection of patients. Earn CE Now

In episode 111, host Jon Wood speaks with Preston Rosales about the differences between bosses and true leaders in Sterile Processing (SP). Rosales explains that leaders are often bosses, but bosses are not always leaders, and offers scenarios that define reactions of the two. Their conversation includes development strategies for leaders, such as characteristics that may make one successful, and some approaches that can advance one into a leadership position.   Earn CE Now

In episode 110, host Jon Wood speaks with Jennifer Behlmann about mentoring in Sterile Processing. Behlman discusses the importance of passing on knowledge and experience to others through a deliberate process of "intentional mentorship." She also shares details about her own mentorship journey both inside and outside the Sterile Processing department, and identifies what it takes to become an effective, successful supporter for mentees. Earn CE Now

In episode 109, host Jon Wood speaks with Malinda Elammari, Clinical Education Specialist at Healthmark Industries, a Getinge company, about unexpected data on packaging in the SPD. Elammari reviews packaging types and levels as well as confusion and misconceptions that can be found. Earn CE Now

In episode 108, host Jon Wood speaks with Julie Morrill and Karen Raposa, regional managers at HuFriedyGroup, aChicago-based dental supply and equipment company. Morrill and Raposa sink their teeth into infection prevention compliance associated with dental instruments. They also discuss common challenges when processing tiny, delicate dental instruments in the Sterile Processing area.   Earn CE Now

In episode 107, host Jon Wood speaks with Hannah Schroeder, Clinical Education Specialist at Pure Processing. Schroeder provides her recommendations and rationalizations for record keeping, time stamping, organization, and foot-traffic flow to contribute to the success of the Sterile Processing department (SPD). Benefits of SPD ergonomic initiatives and efficient layout are also discussed. Earn CE Now

In episode 106, host Jon Wood speaks with Kimberly Ames, the Global Programatic Lead Recruiter and U.S. Recruitment Manager at Mercy Ships, about the importance of the Mercy Ships mission, what it takes to volunteer, and the steps necessary to go from application to serving. Also featured on this podcast is Brenda Esparza, the HSPA Foundation's first Mercy Ships scholarship recipient who served in Sierra Leone, Africa, last year. Esparza will share details about her experience serving as a Sterile Processing technician aboard a Mercy Ships vessel.   Earn CE Now

In episode 105, host Jon Wood speaks with Ann Hewitt and Bob Straub from CENORIN about the critical importance of drying instruments prior to sterilization. More specifically, they discuss how moisture present on devices prior to undergoing steam sterilization or low-temperature sterilization can negatively affect the processes and potentially result in patient injury.   Earn CE Now

In episode 104, host Jon Wood speaks with HSPA Clinical Educator Sue Klacik about several key AAMI standards and technical information reports (TIRs) that affect Sterile Processing. Specifically, she provides updates about ANSI/AAMI ST108, Water for the processing of medical devices, AAMI TIR99 Dilator and ultrasound probes processing in health care facilities, and ANSI/AAMI ST113 Comprehensive guide for steam sterilization for dental facilities, which is being developed with the American Dental Association. She also discusses TIR109, External transport of medical devices processed by health care facilities. Earn CE Now

In episode 103, host Jon Wood speaks with Marcy Duffy, Intuitive's Genesis Reprocessing Product Manager, about robotics in reprocessing. She identifies critical factors to consider when planning a robotics service line, including workflow and layout, assessment of current equipment, understanding how a robotics program fits into current operations, and steps to ease the transition for Sterile Processing leaders and their teams. Earn CE Now

In our 102nd episode, host Jon Wood speaks with fitness trainer and nutrition coach, Brenda Edwards, about physical, emotional and mental health. Specifically, she shares her recommendations for mobility activities to address the physical demands within the Sterile Processing department. Click the link to see Brenda's SP workout! https://cghustle.zoom.us/rec/play/8f6Wi63aLuQ3PLgBRnwgLfqE2ds4o2jgYvL5zI-WReeJiQjv832iqoU2CZySvfLSCXfJjeE0c5g7Nv39.w75R8NTsaVXJJ8X7 Earn CE Now

In our 101st episode, host Jon Wood reviews the most recent articles found in HSPA's PROCESS magazine related to water quality. Specifically, he explores the article, “A Leader's Guide to Understanding and Following ST108,” authored by Marie Brewer, and key aspects of “Guarding the Gateway: Ensuring Water-Related Safety and Quality in Sterile Processing,” by Norm Thompson. Earn CE Now

In our 100th episode, host Jon Wood revisits 10 must-hear segments from a variety of HSPA interviews conducted in 2023. Some of these discussions include surgical instruments and IFU, a PPE "arsenal" found at a VA hospital, and English as a second language in Sterile Processing. These conversations and more are discussed in this, one-hour special podcast. Earn CE Now

In episode 99, host Jon Wood speaks with Sue Klacik and Terra Kremer about how time, temperature and humidity affect soil drying on medical devices. They also address challenges associated with weather conditions and the transporting of soiled instruments to Sterile Processing areas. Earn CE Now

In episode 98, host Jon Wood speaks with HSPA President, Monique Jelks, about her journey into Sterile Processing (SP), her passion for problem solving, process improvement and supporting fellow SP professionals—and how they helped lead her to become President of the HSPA Board of Directors.   Earn CE Now

In episode 97, host Jon Wood speaks with AORN's Senior Perioperative Practice Specialist, Amber Wood, about the AORN guidelines writing process and the documents' relevance to Sterile Processing (SP) practices. Amber also addresses how others can become involved in the AORN guideline-writing process. Earn CE Now

In episode 96, host Jon Wood speaks with HSPA Clinical Educator, Sue Klacik, who has served on the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation's (AAMI's) standard committees for many years. She shares her unique insights about the importance of AAMI standards and their critical roles in ensuring best practices and appropriate processes are followed to promote patient safety and positive outcomes.   Earn CE Now

In episode 95, host Jon Wood discusses pasteurization and its role in Sterile Processing with HSPA's guests, Richard Radford and Ann Hewitt of Cenorin. Radford and Hewitt discuss the history of thermal disinfection—and how the process that was originally applied to the food industry has been adopted by the healthcare industry. Specifically, they discuss the benefits and application of using water and heat over toxic chemicals when disinfecting instruments.   Earn CE Now

In episode 94, host Jon Wood discusses water and steam issues with Dr. Jonathan Wilder. From wet loads to extended dry time, Wilder explains the causes, effects and potential solutions for these challenging and dangerous situations. Earn CE Now

In episode 93, host Jon Wood follows-up on Process This! episode 92 where he discussed borescopes with Andrew Sundet, Sales and Marketing Manager at Clarus Medical. Joining Wood and Sundet for this episode is Ehren Arndt, Head of Customer Success and Partner Solutions who shares an exceptional step forward in the usage of borescopes—the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Earn CE Now

In episode 92, host Jon Wood discusses borescopes with Andrew Sundet, Sales and Marketing Manager at Clarus Medical. Sundet has a passion for borescopes and their use in the healthcare setting. He details the necessary set-up and inspection processes as well as the frequency that borescope inspections should be performed, how the processes should be documented, and ways to engage stakeholders in the process. Earn CE Now

In episode 91, host Jon Wood speaks with Marie Brewer to discuss her role in the decontamination splash study performed at her facility with Ofstead & Associates. The startling findings generated by the study reinforce the need for adequate personal protective equipment and the implementation of other controls to improve employee safety. Earn CE Now

In episode 90, host Jon Wood discusses English as a second language (ESL) in Sterile Processing (SP) with Angie Holland. She reveals the critical need for English proficiency in SP and steps leaders, educators and co-workers can take to work more effectively alongside their ESL peers. Holland also discussed the benefits of establishing an ESL program for the department. Earn CE Now

In episode 89, host Jon Wood speaks with Adam Okada, Clinical Education Specialist at Healthmark Industries. Okada discusses his passion: helping to improve patient care quality by giving Sterile Processing (SP) technicians greater access to education. He shares his thoughts about the common problems associated with SP training and how these issues can be reevaluated and improved. Okada also discusses some healthy habits practiced by quality-focused technicians. Earn CE Now

In episode 88, host Jon Wood speaks with Brian Flannigan, Principal and subject matter expert for non-potable water system safety and efficiency for Phigenics LLC, about the upcoming standard, AAMI ST108 Water for the processing of medical devices. Flannigan discusses best practices for water testing and how to meet the recommended critical utility water requirements.   Earn CE Now

In episode 87, host Jon Wood speaks with Healthmark Senior Clinical Education Specialist Cheron Rojo about his newest study on insulation testing and patient safety. Rojo reviews insulation testers capabilities, features and challenges, and addresses how technique and common damage identification—such as patterns, holes and other damage—are key to effective insulation testing. Earn CE Now

In episode 86, host Jon Wood speaks with Case Medical Clinical Manager Dewey Barker about the important science behind cleaning in Sterile Processing. Barker explores soil, bioburden and invisible microbial contaminants when relating to their removal from instrument surfaces, without harming devices. Discussions regarding common mistakes found in the SPD, lack of attention to detail, and process perimeter knowledge are also covered. Earn CE Now

In episode 85, our host speaks with AORN's Senior Perioperative Practice Specialist, Amber Wood, about the pros and cons of single-use and reusable endoscopes. The scopes' safety margins are discussed, along with FDA requirements and the latest safety reports and alerts. Decision-making support teams that contribute to AORN's guidance in evaluating different endoscope types is also addressed. Earn CE Now

In episode 84, host and clinical educator Jon Wood speaks with HSPA Director of Education Natalie Lind about the newly updated ninth edition HSPA Sterile Processing Technical Manual. Lind discusses what led to the textbook revision and explains how standards, Sterile Processing-related questions from HSPA members and input from industry experts, vendors and more influence content when updating textbooks. Earn CE Now

In episode 83, host and clinical educator Jon Wood speaks with the Sterile Processing team from Lebanon VA Medical Center about their unique and creative methods for maintaining comfortable decontamination PPE. Wood also explores the costs and safety aspects of this "cool solution" with SP Chief Richard Lambdin, SP Educator Vanessa Cavanaugh and Advanced Medical Supply Technicians LaShonda Rhoads and Shannon Stankinas.   Earn CE Now

In episode 82, host and clinical educator Jon Wood speaks with America's MedSource Inc.'s President and Owner, James Schneiter, about the benefits of instrument design and redesign for the benefit of patient care. He also addresses confusing and conflicting instructions for use (IFU) and the frustration that arises when there is a lack of validation testing for IFU. Earn CE Now

In episode 81, host Jon Wood speaks with surgeon Dr. M. Gerard-Paul Slobogean about the critical relationship between orthopedic trauma surgery and Sterile Processing. Specifically, Slobogean addresses how interruptions and delays resulting from improperly prepared instrument trays or contaminated instruments negatively affect schedules and procedures and jeopardize patient care and outcomes. Earn CE Now

In episode 80, host Jon Wood speaks with AORN Journal's clinical editor and guest, Susan Ober, about her responsibilities with the publication and how a CRCST designation broadens her knowledge base. Ober also discusses how she incorporates her knowledge of sterile processing in her ever-challenging position. Also covered by Wood is a review of an article from the AJIC Journal, on the topic of utility of lighted magnification and borescopes for visual inspection of flexible endoscopes.   Earn CE Now

In episode 79, host Jon Wood speaks with guests Samantha Jacques and Chris Nowak to discuss the medical device servicing community (MDSC), including what it entails and how patient safety is the MDSC's top priority, just as it is for those in Sterile Processing (SP). Jacques and Nowak also address SP professionals' critical connection to medical device servicing and the vital role they play in the MDSC.   Earn CE Now

In episode 78, host Jon Wood reviews a random selection of instructions for use (IFU) and discusses some of the challenges and solutions to making IFU less confusing and more readily understood.   Earn CE Now