Vascular Devices and Biofilm: Webinar Opportunity
The free, live Webinar, “Why are Vascular Devices Prone to Biofilm Contamination?” will be presented on http://www.TargetBSI.com and will address the emerging issue of biofilms. Experts in the field will discuss the obstacles to preventing, managing and eradicating biofilms in vascular access devices. The Webinar will be hosted by Garth James, PhD, BS, medical projects manager for the Center for Biofilm Engineering, and Marcia Ryder, PhD, MS, RN, of Ryder Science.
James is also an assistant research professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Montana State University in Bozeman, Mont., and has nearly 20 years of experience in biofilm research, including testing and research related to vascular access devices.
Ryder's experience in nursing includes positions as clinical director of a special care unit and a cardiovascular/thoracic unit, a clinical nurse specialist in nutrition support, and director of nursing in home infusion. Her doctoral dissertation research investigated the effect of pulsed electrical fields on biofilm bacteria.
This live webinar will be presented on Tuesday, July 28 at 1 p.m. ET and on Thursday, July 30 at 2 p.m. ET).
Clinicians who manage or monitor vascular-access catheters and related products and technology will find useful, practical infection prevention information at TargetBSI.com, including the interactive Webinar series, presentations on selected clinical practice issues, and a section on best practices recommended by national thought leaders. The Web site is supported by funding from Baxter Healthcare Corporation.
Getting Down and Dirty With PPE: Presentations at HSPA by Jill Holdsworth and Katie Belski
June 26th 2025In the heart of the hospital, decontamination technicians tackle one of health care’s dirtiest—and most vital—jobs. At HSPA 2025, 6 packed workshops led by experts Jill Holdsworth and Katie Belski spotlighted the crucial, often-overlooked art of PPE removal. The message was clear: proper doffing saves lives, starting with your own.
Unmasking Vaccine Myths: Dr Marschall Runge on Measles, Misinformation, and Public Health Solutions
May 29th 2025As measles cases climb across the US, discredited myths continue to undercut public trust in vaccines. In an exclusive interview with Infection Control Today, Michigan Medicine’s Marschall Runge, PhD, confronts misinformation head-on and explores how clinicians can counter it with science, empathy, and community engagement.
Silent Saboteurs: Managing Endotoxins for Sepsis-Free Sterilization
Invisible yet deadly, endotoxins evade traditional sterilization methods, posing significant risks during routine surgeries. Understanding and addressing their threat is critical for patient safety.
Endoscopes and Lumened Instruments: New Studies Highlight Persistent Contamination Risks
May 7th 2025Two new studies reveal troubling contamination in both new endoscopes and cleaned lumened surgical instruments, challenging the reliability of current reprocessing practices and manufacturer guidelines.
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.
