Sterile Processing

Life science companies continually evaluate their operations for opportunities to improve throughput, increase compliance, and reduce costs. Medical device manufacturers, laboratories, and R&D facilities can all experience greater flexibility and more control with an in-house ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization program. By reducing what can be a two-week turnaround time with outsourced sterilization, operations managers can expect faster release of finished goods and increased inventory turns for a measurable and sustainable economic benefit. In particular, companies that process small, high-value devices can benefit from the new 3M™ Steri-Vac™ Sterilizer/Aerator GSX Series ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization system, with state-of-the-art mechanical design, real-time cycle information on the high-resolution color touch screen, and the ability to quickly and easily customize sterilization cycles.

Q: On occasion, I will be asked to process a device which does not have instructions for use. Sometimes, the item is not a medical device (e.g., zipper). I am told I must process the device because the surgeon requires it for a case. I usually process the device. I have just learned this is not the correct practice. How do I handle this?

With the new landscape of managed care, it is vital for hospitals and medical centers to  enhance their efficiencies. With the modernization of computer software systems designed for healthcare, there is an opportunity for improvements. The Conflict Schedule Checker (CSC) is available in most OR scheduling systems. Healthcare organizations may or may not be aware of this capability and its functionality to surgical instrument management.

This new column, SPD Dialogue, will respond to questions asked by sterile processing professionals. We hope you find this dialogue helpful and informative.Q: My loaner representative wants to wash his instruments in my department. I think this would be a great help to my SPD. Should I permit this?