This year's state of the industry report for the operating room, with data provided through an online survey of ICT readers who work in surgical services, is designed to offer a snapshot of the key issues and challenges relating to budgets, resourcing and workloads, as well as ongoing shortages in time, personnel and educational opportunities.
Perioperative personnel who participated in ICT's survey reported a number of infection prevention-related imperatives within the context of sterile technique; characterized their healthcare institution's surgical site infection (SSI) rates; and also expressed concerns related to environmental hygiene in the operating room.
The majority of survey respondents (85 percent) said they believed that their healthcare institution has a strong culture of safety overall, indicating that some work still needed to be done to improve communication and collaboration between the operating room and other key stakeholders in the healthcare environment.
Xenex offers LightStrike, the only Pulsed Xenon Full Spectrum™ disinfection system. It quickly eliminates harmful pathogens that cause Hospital Acquired Infections. Peer reviewed published outcome studies conducted by hospitals using LightStrike show up to 70% reductions in C. diff and MRSA infection rates, and 100% decrease in total joint SSIs.
From the Derby to the Decontam Room: Leadership Lessons for Sterile Processing
April 27th 2025Elizabeth (Betty) Casey, MSN, RN, CNOR, CRCST, CHL, is the SVP of Operations and Chief Nursing Officer at Surgical Solutions in Overland, Kansas. This SPD leader reframes preparation, unpredictability, and teamwork by comparing surgical services to the Kentucky Derby to reenergize sterile processing professionals and inspire systemic change.
The Rise of Disposable Products in Health Care Cleaning and Linens
April 25th 2025Health care-associated infections are driving a shift toward disposable microfiber cloths, mop pads, and curtains—offering infection prevention, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency in one-time-use solutions.