Becker's Clinical Quality & Infection Control

22 Executive Briefing How HLD reprocessors work with health systems The Arjo Pure program was established after Arjo acquired ReNu Medical to further the reach and create customized, noninvasive device reprocessing programs based on facility needs. "We collaborate with our customers to set up an implementation plan and schedule to meet their expectations and manage the logistics from A to Z. We also educate different areas in the facility affected by the program," Mr. Long said. Branded collection containers are installed in convenient hospital locations so staff can easily deposit used devices. Once everything is set up, our Arjo service organization collects used devices on a schedule that is defined by the facility and the Arjo team. The devices are brought to Arjo's reprocessing center in Seattle, where they undergo a multi- step process of sorting, pre-cleaning, high-level disinfection, testing and repackaging. "After the devices are disinfected and tested, we label them in compliance with FDA regulations and send them back either through the distribution channel or to facilities direct, so they can be used again on a subsequent patient," Mr. Long explained. ReNu Medical offers a fast turnaround for reprocessing noninvasive devices, with the entire process completed within seven days. As soon as products arrive at the reprocessing center, it takes approximately four days to complete the HLD process and devices are shipped out within 24 hours of receiving a purchase order. "Our primary goal is to deliver the highest quality products that protect patient safety, cost savings and the environment. We process millions of devices annually and believe it is critical to deliver on our quality and environmental promises to our partner facilities. These assurances provide trust that High-Level Disinfected devices, through our Arjo Pure program, are safe and effective for patients," Mr. Long said. Best practices for implementing an HLD reprocessing program Intermountain Healthcare has been reprocessing noninvasive medical devices for several years, but just recently adopted HLD technology. When searching for reprocessing partners, Intermountain Healthcare looks for high yield rates for devices, as well as packaging that mimics the OEM packaging. Once a reprocessor enters into an agreement, Intermountain Healthcare works with clinical leaders to ensure that feedback channels are in place. The reprocessing market for noninvasive devices has been moving toward more specialized niche suppliers. As a result, Intermountain Healthcare saw an opportunity to engage a second reprocessing supplier. "Reprocessing medical devices has been so successful that the products have become commoditized. This positively impacts the cost of care. We have a primary processor that handles invasive items and a second for reprocessing noninvasive products," Dr. Gasperini said. The two suppliers work collaboratively to deliver a great customer experience to Intermountain Healthcare. It has been a good experience working with Arjo for noninvasive devices. Because Arjo works collaboratively with everyone involved, we have made minimal changes to our current workflows and processes. That's a benefit for us," Dr. Gasperini added. Conclusion High-level disinfection is a safe and proven technology for reprocessing noninvasive devices. Health systems that have tried this technology appreciate the cost savings, as well as the reduction in waste and harmful environmental emissions. HLD enables organizations to be mindful of their patients' physical and financial health, as well as the health of the environment. According to Dr. Gasperini, "We have many caregivers and patients who are concerned about the environment, and rightly so. With HLD, we anticipate very positive results for our healthcare system, our environment and our patients." n At Arjo, we are committed to improving the everyday lives of people affected by reduced mobility and age-related health challenges. With products and solutions that ensure ergonomic patient handling, personal hygiene, disinfec- tion, diagnostics, and the effective prevention of pressure ulcers and venous thromboembolism, we help profession- als across care environments to continually raise the standard of safe and dignified care. Everything we do, we do with people in mind. "Our primary goal is to deliver the highest quality products that protect patient safety, cost savings and the environment. We process millions of devices annually and believe it is critical to deliver on our quality and environmental promises to our partner facilities." — Randy Long, CEO, ReNu Medical

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