Terra Kremer, the senior manager of microbiological quality at Johnson & Johnson and technical leader of the Device Processing Tiger Team, gave a presentation at the2022 Healthcare Sterile Processing Association Annual Conference & Expo. It was held in San Antonio (Texas) April 23-27 2022.
Kremer presented on the environmental effects of clinical soil drying on instruments. Kremer also discussed how the device is the responsibility both of the manufacturer and the facility. Also, Kremer stressed that cleanliness validation is not as simple as visual cleanliness.
For manual cleaning, this involves removing any gross soil, opening and disassembling the instruments, applying fresh cleaning solution, using non-linting wipes and appropriate-sized brushes, then rinsing with crucial water and drying with clean, non-linting wipes.
Kremer also spoke about why sharing the results of research with sterile processors is important. It is easier for someone to learn if they understand why. So that they can remember and follow sterilizing and cleaning instructions, sterilizing and sterilizing instructions from manufacturers and how it affects patient safety, sterilizing and cleaning processors must be able to explain what happens.
Infection Control Today (ICT): Please summarize the key points of your presentation about the importance and efficiency of time.
Terra KremerOur research examined the science behind drying clinical soil after use and before decontamination. We examined three key variables: temperature, humidity, and time to understand how they would impact the soil’s drying process.
ICTWhat are the key takeaways for sterile processing professionals looking for actionable advice?
TKDo not allow the soil to dry. It is important to read the instructions and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning your device. We [at Johnson & Johnson]The device should not be allowed to dry after being clinically used. It is important to understand that if the device does dry, it will alter our plans for manufacturers. Don’t let it dry. If you do, it will dry. [let it dry]Clean it in 8 hours.
We found this in the data we presented. [that]There is no statistical difference between what we plan to do and what happens in 8 hours. [which is]Allow it to dry for 8 hours. It is important to clean it quickly if it does dry.
The other point is that the device is not safe if it is uncomfortable in the environment. It is not a good idea to expose soil to temperatures higher than 30 degrees Celsius.
ICT: What was it that the recent research on point-of-use treatment revealed?
TKManufacturers should ensure that point-of use treatment is not performed in their validations. It is important to remember that [pre-treatment]It is because, as our data shows, once the devices are allowed drying, the chemical changes in the soil change the soil’s solubility. What we found was [that]It is very important that you keep your point-of-use treatment records. [the instrument]You should keep your hands moist to remove any gross debris after a clinical use.
ICT: What’s the biggest challenge facing the sterilize processing industry right now
TK: I believe the greatest challenge facing this industry is the disconnect that exists between reality and expectation. [For]Manufacturers: When we validate the instructions for usage that we provide, we expect that they are being followed at the facility word-for-word. The reality is that this is not always true. So, although we try to plan in the worst case and make sure that everyone has a good day, there is still a safety net built into the process. However, eventually, it is important to understand that there is a different reality. Then, having people who are processing realize the consequences of their actions. If they wait to clean a device, and then let it dry, the chemistry might change, which could increase the cleaning challenge.
ICT: Do you have anything else?
TK: I only have one thing to add. This study and the 2 that follow it are intended for publication. We expect to publish before the end of the year. Please look out for these publications and help educate your facility about point-of-use treatments and what they mean.