Inside the Game-Changing SPD Experience: John Kimsey’s Mission to Bridge the Gap Between the OR and Sterile Processing

At this year’s AORN and HSPA conferences, attendees can expect more than presentations—they will get hands-on experience inside a full-size mock sterile processing department (SPD), thanks to John Kimsey, vice president of processing optimization and customer success at STERIS. Kimsey is bringing his unique, interactive SPD game to both events, offering a dynamic and eye-opening session that turns the complex processes of sterilization, inventory, and staffing into a competitive and fun simulation.

The game mimics real SPD workflows using everyday items like shoeboxes (instrument trays) and crayons (surgical instruments). Participants are challenged to process 200 trays in just 20 minutes, navigating real-world scenarios such as missing instruments, decontamination delays, and maintaining flow under pressure. Through this game, Kimsey demonstrates the impact of common operational issues and encourages reflection on how to optimize performance through staffing, equipment, and process efficiency. The session includes both gameplay and a post-game presentation, adjusting the messaging based on the audience—whether it’s perioperative nurses at AORN or SPD professionals at HSPA.

What sets this initiative apart is how it fosters collaboration and empathy between departments. Operating room nurses, who may not fully understand the complexities of SPD, leave the session with a new perspective. Many express shock at how intricate the processes are, and how their own actions can impact SPD performance. Conversely, SPD professionals use the session to refine their operational leadership and explore strategies for improvement.

John Kimsey, vice president of processing optimization and customer success at STERIS presenting at AORN and HSPA 2025 conferences.

Kimsey said, “It's fun to see the OR's reactions and hear them make comments like, ‘I never realized it was like this.’ I had one lady play the game last year who, afterward, said, although I can't repeat her exact words because of some colorful language, ‘I will never treat sterile processing the same again.’"

While discussing the differences in the post-game conversation, Kimsey noted that the discussion varies between HSPA and AORN attendees. “Their reactions are [slightly] different because they're learning what it's all about and discovering its realities. When I go to HSPA, I'm working with people who live and breathe sterile processing. So, my presentation at the end of HSPA will be a bit different because I'm talking to people who already know what it's like in sterile processing. I discuss ways they can improve their processes and enhance their leadership routines…. While the game remains the same, [the post-game discussion at the AORN conference] emphasizes helping them understand the realities of sterile processing and how they, as OR personnel, can contribute to making the entire process work,” Kimsey said.

The popularity of the game continues to grow. Kimsey recalled how the tabletop (candy bar) version created such a buzz at a previous HSPA conference that attendees lined up before doors opened to get their hands on a kit. Today, the game has evolved into a reusable Lego-based format, allowing hospitals to run their own sessions. Facilities now use the game to build teamwork, educate new hires, and strengthen the relationship between SPD, OR, and infection prevention (IP) staff.

Kimsey believes education and communication are the keys to improving outcomes and safety. He emphasizes that while certification courses through HSPA are essential for developing foundational knowledge, there’s a pressing need for more hands-on, accessible training—especially for those new to SPD. Real-time training, videos, and standardized learning modules can equip staff, especially as many departments hire inexperienced technicians due to industry-wide shortages.

In addition, technology is a central piece of the optimization puzzle. From tracking instruments to providing real-time access to instructions for use, technology can empower technicians, reduce errors, and alleviate the pressure of memorizing complex procedures. Kimsey encourages IP professionals to support and advocate for this innovation within their facilities.

Ultimately, his message is clear: incremental improvement and cross-departmental collaboration are essential. SPD, the OR, and IP professionals must break down silos and work together toward one common goal—patient safety. Through creative initiatives like this game, Kimsey is helping to make that goal more achievable and fun.