142. ADHD in Sterile Processing: Real Talk with Tiffany and Jake

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! 

141. Why Are My Surgical Instruments Magnetized?

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. 

140. Inside the HSPA Certification Exam Process

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.

139. Functionality Testing Surgical Instruments and Devices

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. 

138. Strengthening OR and SPD Relationships

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.

137. Sterile Processing Educator Resources and Strategies

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.