Staff in Western Baptist’s Central Sterile department now can sterilize more equipment quicker and safer, with the help of a new sterilization system.

Linda Keeling, Central Sterile supervisor, said the STERRAD 100NX, a low-temperature hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilization system, has far-reaching effects. “Not only does it help us do our job in Central Sterile better, but also it helps the entire hospital function more efficiently,” said Keeling.

Keeling said the new system, the first used in the state, offers these benefits:

• Flexibility to process a wide range of instruments. The system sterilizes a wide range of general surgical instruments, including single-channel flexible endoscopes and semi-rigid ureteroscopes, plus cameras, light cords, batteries, power drills, rigid scopes and more.
• Fast instrument turnaround. The system features a 47-minute standard cycle time for most surgical instruments and a 42-minute flex cycle time for (up to) two single-channel flexible endoscopes (in one cycle).
• Innovative technology that’s user-friendly. The system incorporates a touch screen user interface, a footpad for hands-free access and enhanced information management capabilities, including USB upload/download and network connectivity.
• Safety for staff, patients and environment. Process by-products are water vapor and oxygen so aeration and/or external ventilation are not required, and there are no toxic residues.

“We’re very pleased with the system,” said Keeling. “Any addition that expedites staff efficiency—and ultimately patient care—is a tremendous benefit.”