By Sarah B. Cruz
In sterile processing (SP), standards are not academic references. They exist to control risk, guide decisions, and protect patients when processes are stressed, questioned, or challenged. Among them, the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation Standard ST79 remains the most influential document governing steam sterilization practices. It shapes how SP departments design workflows, validate equipment, configure loads, monitor cycles, store products, and determine whether an item is safe to release for patient use.
Learning Objectives
- Explain how ST79 functions as a risk-control and decision-making tool in Sterile Processing operations.
- Recognize barriers and oversights that limit effective use of ST79 in daily practice.
- Implement strategies to integrate ST79 into education, SOPs, and perioperative collaboration.
About the Author
Sarah B. Cruz, CSPDT, CRCST, CHL, CIS is president and founder of PRETREAT CSS, where she and Sterile Processing professionals work together to create objective-driven goals to advance their professional development. She is an industry speaker, published writer, social media enthusiast, mentor, and CTSPA Chapter President and HSPA Director. Sarah is a Sterile Processing instructor at her local community college and a CS Quality Education Program Development Coordinator in her full-time role.
Course Includes
- 1 Lesson
- 1 Test
- Course Certificate
The CBSPD (Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution) has pre-approved this in-service for one (1) contact hour for a period of five (5) years from the date of original publication. Successful completion of the lesson and post test must be documented by facility management and those records maintained by the individual until re-certification is required.
DO NOT SEND LESSON OR TEST TO CBSPD.
For additional information regarding certification contact CBSPD – 148 Main Street, Suite C-1, Lebanon, NJ 08833
HSPA (Healthcare Sterile Processing Association) has pre-approved this in-service for 1.0 Continuing Education Credits for a period of three years.
For more information, direct any questions to Healthcare Purchasing News (941) 259-0832.
