FLASH Cycle vs. FLASH Sterilization

By kschlachter

FLASH is an antiquated term; it is no longer used in our industry today.  In 2011, the multi societies came together to remove the word FLASH from the industry.  The new word the societies created was Immediate Use Steam Sterilization (IUSS). IUSS became the new term, that replaced Flash from the aspect of no dry…

Even Sterilization Cannot Excuse Poor Cleaning Practices

By kschlachter

The global pandemic has dramatically underscored the value of infection control protocols. But, already there had been new emphasis on infection prevention and reducing readmissions due to healthcare-acquired infections — and so more attention than ever on endoscope reprocessing, says Mary Ann Drosnock, manager of clinical education for endoscopy with Healthmark Industries. “I feel like these…

Like Fine Wine, You Can’t Rush Loaner Medical Equipment

By kschlachter

When loaner trays of medical equipment first arrive at a hospital, their level of cleanliness is simply the luck of the draw. “The same challenges with loaner equipment have persisted for years,” says Bob Marrs, who spent nine years with a surgical instrument supplier, in various educational and consulting roles, and previously worked in perioperative…

We Need To Talk: The OR and SPD Relationship

By kschlachter

It wasn’t until midway through his career as a neurosurgeon that Dr. George Cybulski, now chief medical officer of Vested Medical, Inc., in Illinois, first visited a sterile processing department to introduce himself and learn how it worked. That’s a step that few doctors ever take. In fact, Cybulski’s first visit to sterile processing generated…

It’s Never Too Early To Prepare for a Survey

By Barbara Ann Harmer

It’s never too early to prepare for a survey. Did you know that you can reach out to the manufacturer of a product in question before, OR DURING a survey? Preparation for a survey/inspection should be an ongoing task as well as managing and keeping up with required documentation. A key point that is often…