The Infection Control Today® sterile processing page provides an inside look into the sterile processing (or central supply) department in the hospital where surgical instruments are cleaned, sterilized, and reprocessed in order to disinfect, remove bioburden, and prep for upcoming procedures. Sterile processing applies to not only the knives, scalpels, scissors, forceps, and clamps used in surgery, but also instruments such as endoscopes and duodenoscopes. ICT® reports on the latest technology but also on the means to disinfect that technology. Also, the trend toward making more disposable surgical equipment. What does that mean for the sterile processing team?
December 19th 2024
Explore APIC’s groundbreaking framework for defining and documenting infection preventionist competency. Christine Zirges, DNP, ACNS-BC, CIC, FAPIC, shares insights on advancing professional growth, improving patient safety, and navigating regulatory challenges.
Why Clinical Expertise Is the Cornerstone to Your Most Profitable Business Line
November 14th 2024Perioperative nurses bring vital skills in patient safety, infection control, and quality improvement. They enhance surgical outcomes and support health care systems during complex, high-risk procedures.
Meet Infection Control Today's Editorial Advisory Board Member: Rebecca Leach, MPH, BSN, RN, CIC
September 30th 2024Meet the experts shaping infection prevention: Infection Control Today's Editorial Board members share insights, experiences, and cutting-edge strategies to enhance health care safety and quality. Meet Rebecca Leach, MPH, BSN, RN, CIC.
How Cleaning Medical Equipment Directly Affects Patient Safety and Equipment Longevity
September 16th 2024Hospital-associated infections affect over 1 million US patients annually. Proper medical equipment cleaning and sterilization significantly reduce infection risks, improving patient outcomes and safety.
New UV-C Disinfection Technology for Ultrasound Probes Earns FDA Clearance
September 4th 2024Chronos, a chemical-free UV-C disinfection device for ultrasound probes, received FDA clearance. It offers health care professionals a fast, automated solution to reduce cross-contamination and improve infection prevention.
Addressing Sterile Processing Instrument Errors With Advanced Technology and Data Insights
September 3rd 2024Surgical instrument errors, often linked to visualization failures during sterile processing, pose significant risks to patient safety and OR efficiency. Advanced technologies, including AI, are essential for reducing these errors and improving overall outcomes in sterile processing departments.
Implementing FDA 21 CFR Part 820 & ISO 13485 on Quality System Regulation
August 30th 2024The FDA's 21 CFR Part 820 and ISO 13485 are crucial in regulating medical device quality systems. Harmonizing these standards by 2026 will streamline compliance, improve patient access to devices, and align US regulations with global practices.
New ANSI/AAMI Standard Transforms Ethylene Oxide Sterilization in Health Care
July 8th 2024The updated ANSI/AAMI ST24 standard outlines requirements for ethylene oxide sterilizers in health care, addressing advancements, regulatory changes, and new technology to enhance sterilization practices and safety.
The Value of Certification in Infection Prevention and Control: Why Is it important?
May 14th 2024Certification in infection prevention and control is essential for career growth, higher salaries, and improved patient outcomes. Learn why certification matters from Shazia Irum, MSC, MBA, RN, CIC, CPHQ, CBIC Ambassador in Saudi Arabia.
Product Locator: Spring and Early Mother's Day Gift Guide for Infection Prevention Personnel
March 27th 2024Whether it's a spring holiday, birthdays, or no reason at all, infection prevention personnel love to give and receive gifts that help at the end of a stressful day. Infection Control Today® offers some gift ideas for infection prevention personnel and their families.
Rare Disease Day 2024: Spotlight on Rare Infectious Diseases
February 29th 2024Rare Disease Day on February 29, 2024, shines a global light on the impact of rare diseases, including rare infectious diseases. With a focus on early diagnosis and treatment access, this day highlights the struggles of those with rare conditions.
Infection Prevention in Low-Resource Settings: Two Infection Preventionists Consult in East Africa
January 29th 2024Infection preventionists Heather Saunders and Stephanie Mayoryk's journey to East Africa emphasizes the positive impact of infection prevention efforts in low-income countries. Despite challenges, their experience encourages IPs to engage globally, fostering hope and passion for providing excellent patient care.