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…

Reflection Time: Where Did Using Common Sense Go?

By Barbara Ann Harmer

When I was growing up, my mother used to tell me that I was incredibly good with my book knowledge (probably the reason why I was respected when surveying for 25 years) but common sense was not my strong point. Common sense is something that I developed as I matured, and I have concluded that…