Improving the cleaning and packing of surgical instruments
System Optimization for Advances in Sterile Processing
This study is looking at ways to make the cleaning and preparation of surgical instruments better and safer, so that hospitals can reduce the chances of infections and provide better care for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10904683 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the processes within sterile processing departments (SPDs) that clean and prepare reusable surgical instruments. By analyzing the current systems and identifying performance issues, the project aims to develop new interventions and predictive models to improve efficiency and safety in surgical settings. The research will involve creating data visualization tools to help staff make better decisions regarding instrument management, ultimately reducing the risk of surgical site infections and improving overall patient care.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include patients scheduled for surgical procedures that rely on sterile instruments.
Not a fit: Patients undergoing procedures that do not involve the use of reusable surgical instruments may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer surgical procedures and reduced infection rates for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that optimizing sterile processing systems can significantly improve surgical outcomes, indicating a promising potential for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Catchpole, Ken — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Catchpole, Ken
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.