Hands-on expertise
Join sterileguard for in-person workshops designed to provide hands-on learning and practical experience in instrument management. Elevate your skills and ensure best practices in sterile processing.
In-Person Workshop Offerings
The following workshops are available for in-person attendance, providing hands-on learning and practical experience in key areas related to instrument management. Each workshop is designed to be highly educational and immediately applicable to your daily work.
Surgical Instrument Inspection
This session will provide in-depth coverage of all aspects involved in inspecting surgical instrumentation during assembly. Technicians will learn to distinguish between single-use and reusable instruments. The workshop will highlight the different types of damage that may compromise patient safety and cause trays to be rejected by the Operating Room (OR). Additionally, the session will address the various types of bioburden, identifying common sites on instruments where bioburden may remain undetected during decontamination.
Surgical Instrument Identification
Participants will have the opportunity to examine a wide variety of surgical instruments and learn to identify subtle differences between them. Even small distinctions can impact how instruments are used during surgical procedures. The session will focus on instruments such as hemostats, retractors, scissors, and various clamps, discussing their specific uses and the types of surgical cases in which they are employed. The workshop will also cover the manufacturing process of these instruments, including the different types of metals used.
Packaging Techniques
This part of the workshop will provide instruction on the proper methods for packaging surgical instruments, including both wrapped trays and rigid containers. It will cover correct instrument placement and the appropriate positioning of chemical indicators. Technicians will learn wrapping techniques that comply with regulations set forth by OSHA and guidelines provided by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI).
Managing Tray Rejections
Instrument tray rejections can occur for a variety of reasons, often resulting in delayed surgical cases and, in some instances, disciplinary action against the technician responsible for assembly. This session will discuss the multiple causes of tray rejections—such as container defects, improper wrapping, instrument damage, or contamination—and strategies for prevention. Real-world examples of defects and corrective measures will be presented to reinforce learning.
Decontamination
The final workshop will focus on the correct decontamination procedures for surgical instruments received from the OR. Topics will include identifying case cart defects, handling sharps found in trays, and managing gross contamination. Technicians will receive training on the three-sink cleaning process, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and decontamination of complex or multi-part instruments, including those with specific Instructions for Use (IFUs), such as DaVinci scopes and arms. The session will also cover the use of ultrasonic cleaners, mechanical washers, cart washers, and the daily efficacy testing required to ensure proper decontamination.
Dedicated To Education
Sterileguard is committed to providing top-tier sterile processing education. Our in-person workshops reflect this commitment, offering practical, hands-on experience that you can immediately apply in your workplace.
Why In-person?
Our in-person workshops offer a unique learning environment. Benefit from direct interaction with instructors, hands-on practice with instruments, and immediate feedback. This immersive experience ensures you gain a deep understanding of the material.
Achieve Expertise
By the end of our workshops, attendees will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to perform their duties with confidence and precision. Learn to identify instruments accurately, conduct thorough inspections, manage tray rejections effectively, and package instruments correctly.
