The Sound of Clean

By Angela Ritchey

The rising volume of surgical procedures and the increasing complexity of medical instruments pose significant challenges for Sterile Processing (SP) departments. These teams must ensure thorough reprocessing of intricate devices while maintaining operational efficiency. Among the essential yet often underutilized technologies in the decontamination process is the ultrasonic cleaner. This tool is particularly effective for cleaning complex surgical instruments—especially those with lumens, hinges, or delicate components—that are difficult to reach through manual or standard automated methods.

Learning Objectives

1. Explain how an ultrasonic functions
2. Identify challenges ultrasonic use may address
3. Review ultrasonic testing methods

About the Author

Angela Ritchey joined the STERIS team in 2022 as the Clinical Education Specialist for Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Prior to joining STERIS as a clinical education specialist, Angela worked in the Sterile Processing Department for more than 14 years as a Tech, Lead, Associate Manager, and most recently as a Market Manager for eight hospitals in the Midwest. Angela holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a Master of Arts in English from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She is certified as a CRCST, CIS, CHL, and GTS and is a member of HSPA, ASQ, SGNA, AORN, and APIC.