The Role of Ethylene Oxide in Sterile Processing

The Role of Ethylene Oxide in Sterile Processing

Ted May, CEO of Andersen Sterilizers, joins Garland-Rhea Grisby Sr. on Below the Hospital to discuss ethylene oxide, its role in sterile processing, and how it remains a useful, niche sterilization modality. Plus, a discussion of the scientific process behind combating CRE outbreaks and what it took to obtain terminal sterilization clearance under the FDA’s duodenoscope requirements. Disclaimer: Andersen Products distributes and services gas sterilization products manufactured by Andersen Sterilizers, Inc. Andersen Sterilizers manufactures its products in North Carolina.

Clinical Education, SPD War Stories, and Avoiding Wet Packs

Kenneth Campbell joins Below the Hospital host Garland-Rhea Grisby for part two of their conversation about steam sterilization, how to apply ANSI/AAMI ST79 in your facility, and share stories about overfilled trays and wet packs.

Applying ST79 to Steam Sterilization

Kenneth Campbell, veteran, educator, standards developer, and HSPA Fellow, joins Below the Hospital host Garland Grisby Sr. to discuss steam sterilization in the SPD, why ST79 matters, and how to avoid nightmare scenarios like wet packs.

New Research on Tackling Endoscope Biofilm Buildup

Infections from contaminated endoscopes or duodenoscopes can be hard to track and lethal. But new research on endoscope processing may provide a way for sterile processing professionals to deal with biofilm buildup in the SPD. Daniel Lightfoot of Nanosonics joins Below the Hospital host Garland-Rhea Grisby Sr. to discuss research that he recently presented at HSPA 2026, and his findings on a better way to tackle the cyclical buildup of biofilm.

Combating Medical Waste in Sterile Processing

The medical field is a massive producer of waste. But sustainability practices can help combat this problem without compromising on patient safety. Marcia Frieze of Case Medical joins us this week to talk about environmental safety, the potential of enzymatic detergents, and how you can contribute to the state of the art in sterile processing. Disclaimer: Case Medical is a manufacturer of enzymes.