Ask the Educator

Kevin Anderson welcomes Cheron Rojo to the studio for a discussion on personal protective equipment (PPE) and the important role protective barrier materials play in healthcare settings. As a preview of his upcoming August CE webinar, Cheron provides an introduction to ANSI/AAMI PB70, the standard that classifies and evaluates the performance of protective apparel and barrier materials used throughout healthcare. During the conversation, Cheron explains the purpose and scope of the PB70 committee, highlights the key sections of the standard, and discusses how the 2022 revisions impact healthcare professionals. He also shares insights into ANSI/AAMI TIR11 and how it helps facilities interpret and implement PB70 guidance. Whether you're involved in sterile processing, infection prevention, or clinical operations, this episode offers a valuable preview of the concepts that will be explored in greater detail during the full webinar on August 20.

Have you ever wondered how research studies get started—or thought about investigating a challenge in your own sterile processing department? In this episode, Adam talks with Healthmark's Abby Smart about the fundamentals of research. They cover how to develop a research question, what goes into designing a quality study, and practical tips for getting started. Whether you're new to research or looking to make an evidence-based impact in your department, this episode is the perfect place to begin.

Kevin and Adam take a closer look at Healthmark's new AAMI Level 4 Decontamination Gown—and they're not just talking about it, they're wearing it too! The AAMI Level 4 Decontamination Gown is a full coverage gown designed specifically for the demands of sterile processing workflows, where exposure to fluids and strike-through risks are a daily concern. Tune in as they share their firsthand impressions, discuss key design features, and explore the importance of PPE that supports the daily challenges sterile processing professionals face. From comfort and mobility to fluid protection, Kevin and Adam provide practical insights into what sets this gown apart.

Are you thinking about the next step in your sterile processing career? In this episode, Kevin and Adam discuss their own experiences with career development and share practical ways to grow professionally through strategic planning, networking, and advanced certifications. Whether you are just getting started or looking to advance your role, this conversation offers insights to help support your journey in sterile processing.

Starting a business is never easy, especially in the specialized world of sterile processing and medical device reprocessing. In this episode, we talk with Nicole Simon of Simon Sterilization Solutions about her journey launching a new business, navigating the product development process, and her advice for aspiring sterile processing entrepreneurs.  Whether you’re interested in innovation, entrepreneurship, or the future of SPD, this conversation offers practical insights and real-world experience from someone building in the field today. 

Sterile processing inspection is critical to ensuring patient safety—and small issues can easily be missed without the right approach. Healthmark’s Cheron Rojo dives into key findings from recent studies on the inspection of shavers, rigid endoscopes, and light cables. What does the data reveal about common inspection challenges, and are you using the right tools and techniques to catch hidden issues? In this episode, we break down practical insights to help sterile processing professionals improve inspection accuracy, strengthen processes, and protect patients.

In this episode, we explore a real challenge facing many endoscopy departments: how do you properly store a 6½-foot enteroscope in a 6-foot cabinet? Join Mary Ann Drosnock, PhD as she explains what enteroscopes are, the unique challenges associated with processing, drying, and storage, and what manufacturer guidance recommends for best practice. If you work in endoscopy or sterile processing, this episode provides practical insight into managing long enteroscopes while maintaining compliance and protecting patient safety.

Have questions about endoscope reprocessing? Kevin and Adam sit down with Dr. Mary Ann Drosnock and Dyan Darga, our endoscopy experts, to answer the hottest endo questions and discuss the latest trends in endoscope reprocessing. Perfect for SPD teams, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in safe, effective endoscopy practices!

Cheron Rojo has found some interesting data on our light guide cables; essential pieces for viewing a surgical site during laparoscopic procedures; and the data isn’t good.  In this episode, you’ll learn what percentage of light guide cables were determined to be failing or deficient, the reason for those deficiencies, and most importantly, some helpful advice on what we can do to fix it.

Legendary sterile processing educator Stephen Kovach is learning something new in retirement—artificial intelligence. In this episode, we talk with Steve about his new AI passion project and how AI can be used to simplify data reporting, address water quality and spotting issues, and support smarter staffing decisions, including the value of employing newly certified technicians. As always, it’s a fun and insightful conversation with an industry legend.

What is a competency? Why do we need them? And how do we get started creating them? For new leaders in sterile processing, these are some of the most important questions to ask. Competency development is a required element in sterile processing departments and a critical building block of a well-run department. In this episode, we explore the fundamentals of competency development and share practical tips and tools to help you build and implement effective competencies in your department.

Can something as small as lint affect patient safety in the operating room? In this episode, Dr. Wava Truscott shares her detailed research on lint and its role in the perioperative process. We’ll explore how dust and lint particles could influence patient recovery—and what steps can be taken to reduce these risks.

In this episode, Adam is joined by Amy DeGraw, HSPA Clinical Educator, to discuss why recognizing Sterile Processing professionals shouldn’t be limited to one week a year. They explore how ongoing appreciation impacts mental health, strengthens department culture, and share practical ideas to help your SP team feel valued every day.

In this episode, Kevin and Adam sit down with Healthmark’s own Ralph Basile to discuss how he got his start in the family business, what it’s like working alongside his brothers, and where his passion for standards work comes from. Don’t miss this extended interview with an industry legend who’s helped shape the world of sterile processing!

We’ve hit 150 episodes! 🎉 In this special milestone edition of Ask the Educator, we’re celebrating by answering your most frequently asked questions — the ones we’ve heard in our inbox, at conferences, and everywhere in between. Join us as Kevin & Adam reflect on how far we’ve come, share insights from the journey, and look ahead to what’s next. Thank you for being part of the Ask the Educator community — here’s to the next 150 conversations that keep learning and excellence at the heart of sterile processing!

What are the latest trends and changes in flexible endoscope processing, and what is the most recent research and data telling us?  In this episode, we’ll catch up with Dr. Mary Ann Drosnock to recap her September 2025 webinar on what’s new in the world of flexible endoscopes, and get her insight into some of the issues in the industry and some practical advice for addressing them.

If you’ve ever wondered how to break into the field of sterile processing, this episode is for you! We’ll share how we each got our start in the industry, offer practical tips for getting your foot in the door, and highlight common mistakes to avoid when applying for your first SPD job. Whether you’re a student, a job seeker, or just curious about this vital role in healthcare, tune in for insights and inspiration to kick-start your sterile processing career!

Behind every surgical tool lies a story—and sometimes, the impact is deeply personal. In this episode, we sit down with our own Cheron Rojo as he shares how insulation testing touched his life and family in a profound way. From an unexpected surgical outcome to the study that shed new light on insulated devices, Cheron’s journey reveals why this issue matters more than many realize. Tune in for a powerful conversation that blends personal experience with industry insight.

In this episode, Cheron Rojo talks to Kevin and Adam to recap Healthmark’s August 2025 webinar on his 2023 – 2024 arthroscopic shaver study and the results.  Hear the sobering data on failure rates, where the issues were, contributing factors to the failures, and how can we start to improve these disastrous results?

With endoscopy under the spotlight, one of the toughest challenges departments face is proper drying. In this episode, we sit down with Healthmark’s endoscopy specialist, Dyan Darga, to unpack best practices and key takeaways from her July 2025 webinar on endoscope drying.

In this episode, we speak with 2025 HSPA Award of Honor winner, Julie Williamson about her career, how she came to HSPA and how the sterile processing industry has changed and evolved over the span of her career. As a bonus, we’ll let you know how YOU can get involved with industry writing and making sure you have a voice!  

How much do you really know about the chemicals used in your department and could you be unknowingly putting yourself or your team at risk? In this episode, we’re joined by Alex Hilliker, Executive Vice President at ChemDAQ, a leader in chemical monitoring and safety systems. With a background in public service and a passion for protecting frontline workers, Alex breaks down the latest standards in chemical safety, common exposure risks in Sterile Processing, and how teams can take practical steps to safeguard themselves. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, Kevin and Adam sit down with Tiffany Reece and Jake McHugh, Clinical Education and Training Specialists, to discuss how they navigate the challenges of working in sterile processing while managing ADHD. Whether you have ADHD, think you might, or simply want to better understand how professionals can thrive with it, this candid conversation offers insight, support, and encouragement. You're not alone! 

How does a surgical instrument become magnetized, and why is that a problem? In this episode, Healthmark Educators Michael Matthews and Malinda Elammari unpack the mystery of magnetized instruments. Sterile processing professionals will gain valuable insights into how magnetization happens, the challenges it can create in the OR, and practical solutions to address this often-overlooked issue in the SPD. 

What goes into creating a certification exam? Quite a bit more than you might think. In this episode, Kevin and Adam sit down with HSPA’s Siri Sorenson to unpack the process behind certification exams—from their development to delivery. Tune in to learn why certification matters, which options are available, and how these high-stakes assessments are carefully crafted for Sterile Processing professionals.

Surgical instruments need to be clean, and this rightly becomes an area of focus for a lot of sterile processing departments.  But we also need to make sure that instruments and devices used in the surgical case are functional, because non-functional devices can cause complications for patients.  In this episode, we speak with the Packaging Princess, Malinda Elammari about instruments and testing protocols that are often overlooked. 

In this episode, Kevin and Adam sit down with sterile processing legend Natalie Lind to reflect on her April 2025 webinar about improving communication and collaboration between the Operating Room (OR) and Sterile Processing Department (SPD). They discuss key takeaways from the session, explore why OR–SPD relationships often break down, and share practical strategies to bridge the gap, strengthen teamwork, and ultimately improve patient care.

The role of the Sterile Processing Educator has become increasingly common in the last 5-10 years, as more facilities recognize that managers can't effectively run their departments while also prioritizing staff education. In this episode, we chat with Jhmeid Billingslea about the significance of the educator role, why it's essential for the success of a department, and share specific strategies educators can use to enhance staff education.

Industry conferences can feel overwhelming, especially for professionals who are introverted or nervous about attending events with large crowds. In this episode, Healthmark's Michael Matthews (a fellow introvert) shares insight on what to expect, how to manage your time and energy effectively, and offers valuable tips for not just surviving, but thriving, at these events. Tune in for advice on how to make the most of your next conference experience.

With complex IFUs and limited time between procedures in endoscopy, gaps in education and processes can lead to mistakes. In this episode, IP Consultant Emily Barnard (MPH, CIC, HACP-CMS) of Epidemiology Loves Solutions identifies these gaps and offers practical solutions.

Mark recaps his insightful Healthmark webinar on biofilms and fomites. He dives into the science behind biofilms - what they are, how quickly they can form, and why they pose a significant threat to sterile processing. Tune in as Mark explains the dangers biofilms present in maintaining sterility and the importance of managing it in a healthcare setting.

Ever wondered what’s inside some of the most complex surgical instruments and devices? Healthmark’s Rebecca Peplau has...and she didn’t just wonder, she took them apart! In this episode, we revisit Rebecca’s Healthmark Academy webinar, “New Year, New Perspective: Examination of Instrument Cross Sections” and dive into her process. Find out what instruments surprised her the most and her advice to those responsible for cleaning these devices.

The relationship between SPD and the OR is crucial for ensuring positive patient outcomes - but why does it sometimes unravel into a tangled mess of shame, blame, and mistrust? In this episode, we saddle up with Clinical Education Specialist Ronald Hunsucker (AKA the Cowboy of Clean) to explore the challenges and share insights on strengthening this vital partnership.

In Part 2 of our career retrospective with the legendary Stephen Kovach, we explore his transition to Healthmark, the company's evolution over the years, and memorable moments with Ray Taurasi and the Basile brothers. Stephen’s unparalleled contributions have left an indelible mark on the industry, making this episode a heartfelt tribute to his remarkable legacy. Thank you, Stephen Kovach! 

As the legendary Stephen Kovach prepares for his January 2025 retirement, he joins us for a final, reflective interview. Stephen shares his journey - from his early life and entry into the healthcare industry to discovering his passion for reprocessing and his impactful career at Healthmark. Along the way, we explore thought-provoking topics such as overcoming learning disabilities, the symbolism of "crows," the value of mentorship, and the art of public speaking. This must-listen episode offers an intimate glimpse into the man, the myth, the legend - Stephen Kovach.

In this essential episode, Dr. Tiffany Wiksten from The Joint Commission joins us to discuss reprocessing and department surveys. Learn what surveyors are looking for, key areas for department leaders to focus on, and how to best prepare for the survey process. 

In this season of giving, we’re dedicating an episode to the people who truly deserve recognition: YOU, the sterile processing professional! Join us as Kevin & Adam chat with Rebecca Peplau, our newest Healthmark Clinical Education Specialist, about showing appreciation for sterile processing professionals and ways we can better support and recognize the vital role they play in the healthcare industry. From all of us at Healthmark, Happy Thanksgiving!

On a dark and stormy night, possibly at a hospital in your hometown, there are terrible dangers waiting inside the basement. Improper cleaning, poor storage practices, and unsealed packages are just some of the nightmares that await inside a sterile processing department near you. The Packaging Princess, Malinda Elammari, has seen some of these bad practices and lived to tell the tale. Join us (if you dare) and learn about the horrors that await…

For years, sterile processing has been seen as an 'entry-level' position. But have we moved beyond that? In this episode, Kevin and Adam dive into the complex science and technology now driving the modern sterile processing department. They discuss why it’s time for the industry to recognize and re-evaluate the expertise of our sterile processing professionals. This episode is a call to action for SP leaders to rethink our perception of sterile processing—and to reshape our vision for the future.

Sterile Processing Technicians work tirelessly in a demanding role with minimal pay, benefits, and often without recognition, despite their crucial contributions to patient safety. In this episode, we sit down with HSPA President-Elect Arlene Bush to discuss how we can better celebrate, appreciate, and support these essential healthcare professionals. Happy Sterile Processing Week! 

The healthcare environment is already a stressful one with a fast pace, constantly shifting priorities and emergent needs, and demands of consistent excellence.  But this environment gets even more challenging when there is one or more workplace bullies in our midst.  In this episode, we speak to Katie Belski, a long-time professional of the healthcare field working in positions like Quality, IP, and Sterile Processing to hear her thoughts on why these bullies are so prevalent, the impact of them, both mental and financial, and how we can start to fix a toxic workplace culture.

With infections linked to flexible endoscope reprocessing making headlines, many departments are turning to disposable scopes to reduce the risk. In this episode, we talk with Jill Berends (Ambu) about the latest studies on disposable scopes, their impact on patient outcomes, and the steps Ambu is taking to address environmental concerns. Thanks for listening! Please like and subscribe for more episodes. Questions or comments? Emails us at: [email protected]

2024 saw the release of AAMI TIR99 for the reprocessing of probes & dilators.  But many facilities are not aware of this new document and the recommendations that can help your department make informed decisions on these complex devices.  As the co-chair for the AAMI working group that wrote this document, Garland-Rhea Grisby is uniquely qualified to introduce us to the wonderful world of TIR99! 

Every reprocessing professional that has worked with flexible endoscopes knows one irrefutable fact...Flexible endoscopes are complex devices that are difficult to clean. In this episode, we speak with Harry Oussoren to discuss the importance of tools like borescopes to enhance visual inspection, the benefits of cleaning verification testing and microbial surveillance, and how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can revolutionize our decision-making process. 

In the busy world of instrument reprocessing, we may overlook important details, such as keeping instruments in the open position for cleaning and sterilization. In this episode, Clinical Educator Emeritus, Stephen Kovach explains the importance of this practice, shares ways to improve it, and provides useful tools and resources.  Don’t forget to watch Stephen’s past Healthmark CE webinar, “Open Wide: Why You Need to Keep Your Instruments Open” on our website.  

Learning a second language is challenging enough on its own but imagine doing that while also mastering the jargon and science of sterile processing. This is the reality for thousands of sterile processing technicians across the industry! In this episode, we speak with Angie Holland, a bilingual Spanish speaker who is dedicated to creating more resources and educational translations for this often-overlooked sterile processing community. 

Do you want to be a traveling sterile processing leader or even a permanent manager of your own department?  Then this episode is for you!  Leadership in sterile processing is an increasingly difficult job, but now imagine that you only have 3 months to fix a department.  Where do you start?  In this episode, we speak with Tiffany Dailey, a traveling sterile processing leader to discuss the challenges and joys of being a traveling leader, and what we can do to leave a positive and lasting impact on a department. 

Starting a new HSPA chapter in your area can seem daunting. How do you create a non-profit, open a bank account, or write bylaws? Leslie Kronstedt from the Western Wisconsin Sterile Processing Professionals chapter has the answers! In this episode of the Ask the Educator podcast, Leslie shares her journey in the industry, how she became a leader of her local chapter, and the valuable resources she offers to help new chapters get started. Tune in for expert guidance and inspiration! 

In this episode, we dive into the essential training of sterile processing technicians, focusing on the vital skill of documentation and record-keeping. Join us as we speak with Andy Mikos, from Getinge, to better understand sterilization systems thoroughly. Discover why mastering these systems is key to ensuring accurate and reliable documentation and learn the importance of knowing exactly what you are signing your name to. Tune in for expert insights and practical tips on elevating your sterile processing practices. 

Adam Okada speaks with Charlie Webb about the Sterile Aware Awards for sterile processing and device packaging. Do you know a superstar tech, supervisor, or manager that deserves recognition? Tune in to learn how you can nominate a deserving industry professional for a Sterile Aware Award! Thanks for listening! Please like and subscribe for more episodes.