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?

Latest News

Sterile Processing Perspectives With Marjorie Wall, EDBA, MLOS, CRCST, CIS, CHL, CSSBB
The Green Revolution in SPD: From Hidden Cost to Frontline Change

July 30th 2025

As climate change accelerates, health care’s environmental impact faces increased scrutiny, with sterile processing departments (SPDs) emerging as key change agents. Often behind the scenes, SPD professionals can lead sustainability by turning routine practices into ecofriendly protocols that protect both patient and planetary health.

Cori L. Ofstead, MSPH; Brandon M. Gantt, MHA, CRCST, CHL, CER, LSSGBH; and Jill E. Holdsworth, MS, CIC, FAPIC, NREMT, CRCST, CHL, an infection preventionist in Atlanta, Georgia.
Better Alerts, Better Cleaning: Why IFU Updates and Borescope Protocols Must Be Built Into SPD Workflows

July 24th 2025

Cori L. Ofstead, MSPH; Brandon M. Gantt, MHA, CRCST, CHL, CER, LSSGBH; and Jill E. Holdsworth, MS, CIC, FAPIC, NREMT, CRCST, CHL, an infection preventionist in Atlanta, Georgia.
Flawed From the Start: Why Many IFUs for Surgical Instruments Fail in Real-World Sterile Processing

July 23rd 2025

A mother and child having online telemedicine consultation with remote doctor about cold and flu virus treatment.  (Adobe Stock 479767497 Studio Romantic)
Telemedicine's Transformative Role in PPE Distribution and Sterile Equipment Management

July 22nd 2025

Set of bright yellow sharps containers with biohazard labels and red lids used in clinics and hospitals for safe disposal of medical needles and waste. (Adobe Stock 1521632893 by Maksim)
Reducing Hidden Risks: Why Sharps Injuries Still Go Unreported

July 18th 2025

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