Learning Center

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

In episode 108, host Jon Wood speaks with Julie Morrill and Karen Raposa, regional managers at HuFriedyGroup, a Chicago-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.

In episode 107, host Jon Wood speaks with Hanna Schoeder, Clinical Education Specialist at Pure Processing. Schroeder gives her assessments, recommendations and rationalizations for record keeping, time stamping, organization and foot traffic flow contributing to the success of the sterile processing department. Layout efficiencies and ergonomic initiative benefits are both discussed.

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.

In episode 105, host Jon Wood speaks with Ann Hewitt and Bob Straub from CENORIN regarding why it is vitally important to dry instruments prior to sterilization. They discuss the difference between low temperature sterilization and steam sterilization and the implications that moisture has on each as well as the actions of any solution found on instruments before sterilization which could result in a patient injury.

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.