Welcome to The Sterilization Station.
Your Trusted Hub for Sterile Processing
Empowerment!
Lessons that will shape your journey and improve your processes.
Our mission is simple: to empower the Sterile Processing Department (SPD) community with knowledge, inspiration, and motivation. Sterile processing is the backbone of healthcare, ensuring patient safety and operational excellence. Yet, the critical work you do often goes unnoticed.
The Sterilization Station
Whether you're a seasoned SPD professional, a manager, or new to the field, this podcast is your space to connect, learn, and grow. So, let’s power up, level up, and celebrate the incredible work that keeps healthcare moving forward—one instrument at a time. Through engaging conversations, expert insights, and real-life stories, The Sterilization Station shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes of healthcare.
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Latest Interviews
Latest Episodes
The Journey of Jill Berends: Surg Tech to SPD Leadership
In this episode of the Sterilization Station podcast, host Bill Rishell engages with Jill Berends, a clinical specialist in sterile processing, discussing her journey from surgical technology to leadership. They explore the challenges and defining moments in Jill's career, the skills she developed, and the importance of creating a learning environment in sterile processing. The conversation emphasizes the significance of mentorship, team engagement, and the need for effective communication in leadership roles within healthcare. In this conversation, Bill Rishell and Jill Berends discuss the importance of gratitude in leadership, the value of education and certifications for career advancement, and the significance of continuing education in sterile processing. They explore the challenges faced by leaders and the role of mentorship and coaching in personal and professional growth. The dialogue emphasizes the need for leaders to support their teams, celebrate achievements, and foster a positive culture within their departments.
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Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Sterile Processing
In this episode of the Sterilization Station, host Bill Rishell discusses the challenges of imposter syndrome faced by sterile processing professionals. He emphasizes the importance of empowerment, recognizing achievements, and developing a positive mindset. The episode provides practical strategies to overcome self-doubt and encourages listeners to celebrate their successes and seek feedback as a tool for growth.
Read MoreM.E.N.T.O.R.- N IS FOR NETWORKING
In this episode of Sterilization Station, host Bill Rishell discusses the critical role of networking in the field of sterile processing. He emphasizes that networking is essential for career advancement, whether you are an employee, a student, or an extern. The conversation covers various strategies for effective networking, including attending industry conferences, engaging in online communities, and building internal connections. Bill also shares insights on how students and externs can leverage their positions to create valuable professional relationships that can lead to job opportunities. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to take proactive steps in their networking efforts.
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Fun Facts
A typical surgical instrument set can contain anywhere from 10 to 200 instruments, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
Instrument Variety
Sterile processing technicians must have extensive knowledge of cleaning, decontaminating, and sterilizing equipment. They play a critical role in ensuring patient safety.
Expertise Required
Surgical instruments are often made from stainless steel because it is resistant to corrosion and can withstand high temperatures during sterilization.
Materials Matter
Proper sterilization reduces the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs), which affect about 1–3% of all surgical patients.
The Importance of Sterilization
Some healthcare facilities use color-coded instrument trays or sterilization indicators to help staff quickly identify sterilized goods and ensure they’re ready for use!
Color-Coding
Instruments are often subject to stringent quality control checks to ensure they are free from damage, properly sterilized, and ready for surgical use.
Quality Control
Bill Rishell is a dedicated expert with 20 years of experience in sterile processing, and is passionate about empowering, inspiring, and motivating others.
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