APIC 2024 Symposium

Watch the full APIC 2024 symposium

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Optimizing Patient Safety: The Critical Choice Between Manual and Automated Ultrasound Transducer Processing in Mixed-use Clinical Environments

Katharine Hoffman and Cortni Rice talk about the importance of a multidisciplinary, interdepartmental approach to ultrasound probe reprocessing in mixed-care environments.

Interpreting standards and guidelines requires a hierarchical approach

The intended use of an ultrasound probe dictates its level of disinfection

Traceability is a critical component of any reprocessing process

The Hidden Risk of Build-up Biofilm in Reprocessed Endoscopes

Dr Jon Burdach reviews recent outbreaks linked to contaminated endoscopes, and discusses how biofilm formation allows endoscopes to act as reservoirs and contaminate multiple patients over long periods of time.

Why are endoscope-related infections likely underestimated?

Endoscopes can act as reservoirs and infect multiple patients with the same strain of microorganism

Evidence shows that biofilm forms quickly in endoscope channels

Automated endoscope channel cleaner effectively removes biofilm from suction biopsy channels

Presenters

Katharine J. Hoffman, MPH, CIC, LSSGB
Jon Burdach, Ph.D.

Panel Attendant:

Cortni Rice, BSN, RN, CIC, LSSYB

Katharine J. Hoffman, MPH, CIC, LSSBG

Katharine has devoted over 15 years to the healthcare field in various roles and over five years in infection prevention. Katharine is a subject matter expert in the reprocessing of reusable medical devices. She primarily focuses on sustainable process and quality improvement initiatives, education, and training, in addition to collaborating with a range of multidisciplinary service lines.

Jon Burdach, PhD

Dr Jon Burdach is currently Chief Medical Affairs and Scientific Officer at Nanosonics, a global leader in infection prevention solutions. Dr. Burdach is responsible for developing and executing the company's medical strategy, including healthcare professional engagement, scientific communications, medical education initiatives and preclinical and clinical R&D activities.

Dr. Burdach received his Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Science from the University of Tasmania and his PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics from the University of New South Wales (UNSW). He has worked in microbiology, medical device development and medical research within infection prevention for over 15 years. His professional committee member service includes AusMedTech NSW and various AAMI standards development committees. He has authored numerous scientific publications and presented at international conferences. Dr. Burdach is committed to advancing patient care through innovative medical solutions.

Cortni Rice, BSN, RN, CIC, LSSYB

Cortni Rice has a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and has been a Registered Nurse for over 14 years. She has worked in various specialties including Ambulatory, Emergency, Medical-Surgical, Telemetry, Orthopedic, Progressive Care, and Quality. With 9 years of experience in Infection Prevention and Control, her work primarily focuses on high-level disinfection and sterilization as well as education and training. Her service lines include Radiology, Emergency, and Trauma Services as well as collaboration with Environmental Services, Supply Chain, Nutritional Services, and Textiles Processing. She completes surveillance for hip and knee surgical site infections.