Mid-Atlantic Central Service Association HSPA Chapter Presents Fall Back to Basics and Vendor Show

Fall Back to Basics Conference and Vendor Show by MACSA HSPA Chapter

(Image by MACSA)

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The Fall Back to Basics Conference & Vendor Show is an exciting event designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of sterile processing professionals. This conference, scheduled for November 9, 2024, at Valley Health in Ridgewood, NJ, is a full day of learning, with 6 expert speakers covering essential topics in sterile processing. Each speaker brings experience and expertise to help attendees grow in their careers, aiming to improve patient safety and operational efficiency in sterile processing departments.

Speaker 1: Jessie Lopez - "The Basics of Donning and Doffing"

Jessie Lopez starts the conference with a presentation on one of the most fundamental skills in health care: proper donning and doffing of personal protective equipment (PPE). In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of PPE protocols has become more evident than ever before. Lopez will examine the best practices for donning and doffing to minimize contamination risks. His session intends to ensure attendees understand the correct procedures to protect themselves and patients from infections. Mastering these techniques is critical to maintaining a safe environment in sterile processing and beyond.

Speaker 2: Arthur Henderson - "Decontamination and Safe Handling of Reusable Devices"

Arthur Henderson, a recognized expert in decontamination, will speak on safely handling reusable medical devices. His presentation will focus on decontamination, emphasizing the importance of proper cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization to prevent healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Henderson will guide attendees through the latest protocols and standards to ensure that all reusable devices are handled with the utmost care and compliance. His session is essential for sterile processing technicians looking to update their knowledge and practices around decontamination to protect both staff and patients.

Speaker 3: Jonathan A. Wilder - "Behind the Glass: What Do Washer/Disinfectors Do and How Do They Do It?"

Jonathan A. Wilder will take attendees behind the scenes of washer/disinfectors, providing an in-depth look at how these machines operate. His presentation will explain the mechanics and processes involved in cleaning and disinfecting medical instruments. Wilder's session will explore how washer/disinfectors contribute to infection control and why understanding their functionality is essential for ensuring that instruments are properly cleaned. By understanding the science behind these machines, sterile processing professionals can make informed decisions about equipment maintenance and process improvement in their departments.

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Speaker 4: Jhmeid Billingslea - "Bio-burden Reduction Activities for Your SPD"

Jhmeid Billingslea will focus on bioburden reduction, a crucial aspect of maintaining a clean and sterile environment in the sterile processing department (SPD). His presentation will cover best practices for minimizing bioburden, which refers to the number of microorganisms present on a surface before sterilization. By implementing these practices, SPDs can enhance their infection control measures and improve patient safety. Billingslea’s insights will empower attendees to take proactive steps in their departments to reduce the risk of contamination and ensure that every instrument is as clean as possible before sterilization.

Speaker 5: Rose Snyder - "I'm Not a Boss, I'm the Boss: Strategies for Impactful Leadership"

Leadership is essential to any successful sterile processing department, and Rose Snyder will address how to be an impactful leader in her presentation. "I'm Not a Boss, I'm the Boss," Snyder will offer strategies for becoming a more effective leader, focusing on communication, team-building, and conflict resolution. Her session will help attendees develop the leadership skills to motivate their teams, manage stress, and create a positive work environment. Snyder’s practical advice will be valuable for anyone looking to grow as a leader within their department.

Speaker 6: Deannard Esnard - Round Table Discussion: The Process

The day will conclude with a round table discussion hosted by Deannard Esnard. This interactive session, "The Process," will allow attendees to ask questions, share their experiences, and engage in meaningful discussions with peers and experts. Esnard will moderate the discussion, ensuring attendees leave with a deeper understanding of the topics covered throughout the day and actionable takeaways to implement in their SPDs.

With a diverse lineup of speakers covering a range of critical topics, the Fall Back to Basics Conference & Vendor Show promises to be an invaluable event for anyone in sterile processing. Attendees will leave equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to enhance their professional growth, improve their department’s performance, and ultimately contribute to better patient outcomes.

Fall Back to Basics Conference and Vendor Show by the MACSA HSPA Chapter

(image credit to MACSA)