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© 2026 MJH Life Sciences™ , Infection Control Today – HAIs, Infection Prevention, and Safety News. All rights reserved.
Sterile Processing
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?
Education, Advocacy, and Recognition: Malinda Elammari on the Future of Sterile Processing
May 11, 2026
At HSPA 2026 in Baltimore, Malinda Elammari shares why education, certification, and data literacy are critical to advancing sterile processing. Learn how stronger advocacy and recognition can elevate SPD’s role in patient safety and healthcare outcomes.
Empowering Careers and Confidence in Sterile Processing: Voices From HSPA 2026
May 07, 2026
Sterile processing leaders Rebecca Lauber, FHSPA, and Vanessa Frank share insights from their HSPA 2026 presentation on career growth, professional identity, and active learning. Their message is clear: Empowering technicians, strengthening education, and building confidence are key to advancing patient safety and the future of sterile processing.
HSPA 2026: Building Stronger Relationships Between SPD and Other Departments
May 01, 2026
At HSPA 2026 in Baltimore, sterile processing leaders Katie Belski, BSHCA, a-IPC, CRCST, CHL, CIS, CER; and Nicole Simon, CIS, CHL, CRCST, emphasized collaboration, mentorship, and stronger relationships between SPD and other departments to improve communication, resources, and patient safety across health care systems.
Critical Water Quality Challenges in Sterile Processing: HSPA 2026 Case Study Highlights Lessons From VA Health Care Facilities
April 29, 2026
A case study presented at HSPA 2026 revealed how 2 VA facilities overcame persistent bacteria, conductivity, and biofilm issues in sterile processing water systems through recirculation, system mapping, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
HSPA 2026 Baltimore Draws Record Preconference Attendance as Sterile Processing Professionals Focus on Education, Networking, and Community Impact
April 29, 2026
HSPA 2026 in Baltimore opened with record preconference attendance, expanded educational sessions, charitable community outreach, and global networking, highlighting the growing influence and momentum of sterile processing professionals across healthcare.
Scan Fatigue in Sterile Processing: HSPA 2026 Interview Highlights Workflow Gaps and Opportunities
April 27, 2026
Scan fatigue is affecting sterile processing workflows, resulting in gaps in documentation and adherence. At HSPA 2026, Deannard Esnard, CRCST, CIS, CER, CHL, CFER, CQUIA, discusses the need to streamline tracking systems, improve staff engagement, and strengthen patient safety.
Evaluating Endoscope Cleaning Methods: HSPA 2026 Poster Highlights Safety, Fatigue, and Real-World Feasibility
April 25, 2026
Research presented at HSPA 2026 shows multiple endoscope cleaning methods achieve similar outcomes, but pump-assisted and enhanced approaches reduce staff fatigue, injury risk, and missed steps, highlighting the importance of human factors in infection prevention.
Arlene Bush Reflects on HSPA Presidency Ahead of 2026 Conference: Advocacy, Certification, and the Future of Sterile Processing
April 23, 2026
As Arlene Bush, CRCST, CER, CIS, CHL, SME, DSMD, CRMST, concludes her HSPA presidency, she reflects on advocacy, certification efforts, and collaboration, emphasizing mentorship and continued progress in sterile processing ahead of the 2026 conference in Baltimore.
AORN 2026: Colleen Becker, PhD, on Why Nursing Education Must Evolve as a Science
April 21, 2026
At AORN 2026, Colleen Becker, PhD, MSN, RN, CCRN-K, highlights how nursing education must evolve with technology, generational learning styles, and workforce shortages to better prepare nurses for modern health care challenges.
AORN 2026 New Orleans: Evidence-Based Colorectal SSI Bundle Reduces Surgical Infections Through Standardized Intraoperative Nursing Care
April 15, 2026
At AORN 2026 in New Orleans, a colorectal SSI bundle shows how standardized intraoperative nursing practices, interdisciplinary collaboration, and data tracking can reduce infections and improve surgical outcomes.