Clock in, scrub up, and join us behind the red line. We are First Case – an operating room podcast bringing you exciting interviews, engaging discussions, and innovative solutions that are changing the way patients receive surgical care. Each episode we talk to frontline staff, perioperative leadership, and nursing entrepreneurs from across the country as they share their stories, experience and expertise on an industry we love. From the back table to the board room, from wheels in to wheels ...
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Even though their tools and equipment touch nearly every surgical patient in the world, how much do you really know about the people, processes, and products used in the Sterile Processing industry? Beyond Clean offers a creative look into the inner workings of a healthcare industry surrounded by challenges, disrupted by change, and committed to getting it right -- every instrument, every time. The team at Beyond Clean will bring on some of the biggest names in surgical instrument reprocessi ...
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Beyond Clean Canada: Steam, Pipes, & Patient Safety: Water Quality Explained
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26:38Water, water everywhere—but is it safe for sterilization? In this episode of Beyond Clean Canada, we’re joined by water-quality expert Jeffrey Paquet, President and CEO of VERDA™ Water Quality Systems, to reveal what’s hiding in your SPD’s pipes, what it means for patient safety, and how new standards are changing the way facilities think about wat…
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Remember playing telephone as a kid? We always laughed with when the message got mixed up. But in the OR, miscommunication can change everything, and even lead to cancelled surgeries or patient safety issues. In this episode, Lindsay Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR, shares a real-life call-back story that turned into a powerful lesson on why “closing the loop…
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Are you preparing for the CNOR exam, or helping others get ready? This week we’re joined by Wendy Zander, founder of Zander Perioperative Education, to share expert insight on how to approach CNOR certification with confidence. From study tips and testing strategies to understanding learning styles and building long-term retention, Wendy breaks it …
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Planet Assembly - Tunes in the Trenches: Is Music An Essential Part of SPD Assembly?
36:00
36:00
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36:00Earbuds, the radio, or silence on the floor—every SPD has its own beat. What’s yours? On this episode of Beyond Clean’s Planet Assembly, we’re joined by SPD veterans Elizabeth Bell and Tracy Raymond for a friendly but passionate debate over one of the most talked-about topics in our industry: music in assembly! This duo shares how their contrasting…
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On this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a healthcare professional whose passion for style and connection comes to life behind the salon chair. From precision cuts to perfect color blends, this licensed cosmetologist blends artistry and care into every look she creates. Tune in to hear how Dr.Raynetta Stansil brings her signature style to he…
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On this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a healthcare professional whose passion for style and connection comes to life behind the salon chair. From precision cuts to perfect color blends, this licensed cosmetologist blends artistry and care into every look she creates. Tune in to hear how Dr. Raynetta Stansil brings her signature style to h…
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Beyond Clean Canada: Sealing the Standard: Containers, Compliance & What Comes Next
33:15
33:15
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33:15Welcome back, #CanadianCleanFreaks! We’re kicking off Season 2 with a deep dive into rigid containers—and the standards that keep contamination out and surgical trays in play. In this episode of Beyond Clean Canada, we’re joined by Derek McLennan from Trudell Healthcare Solutions to unpack the realities of container use across the country. From sus…
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Planet Assembly - Proof in the Process: How One SPD Cut Tray Errors with Audits
35:58
35:58
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35:58Every SPD tech knows the feeling: the tray wasn’t right, and now everything’s running behind. But what if one small check could stop the chaos before it begins? On this episode of Beyond Clean’s Planet Assembly, we’re joined by Dr. Timothy Hurtado and Tori Ruiz, the dynamic duo behind the first-place HSPA poster presentation that tackled tray defec…
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Death a heavy topic, and one we don’t talk about nearly enough. In this episode, Lindsey Joyce, CVOR nurse and First Case content creator shares her firsthand experiences with patient death in the operating room. From the emotional toll of trauma cases to the quiet aftermath of organ procurement, she offers insight, compassion, and practical advice…
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Are you preparing for the CST exam or supporting someone who is? This week, we’re joined by Michelle Payne, President of the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), for an in-depth look at what it takes to succeed. Join us as Michelle breaks down what the CST exam really measures and how the questions are developed. W…
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Planet Assembly - That’s a Wrap! The Science & Practice of Surgical Wrap
33:05
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33:05Tears, holes, and mystery micro-leaks—if wrap issues are slowing down your workflows, it might be time to understand what's really going on with your surgical wrap. On this episode of Beyond Clean’s Planet Assembly, Sade Brown, PhD, Research & Development Engineer at Owens & Minor, breaks down the science, design, and vulnerabilities that could be …
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On this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a clinician with a passion for serving up something smooth, stirred, and served straight up with a twist. From experimenting with unexpected ingredients to selecting the perfect glassware, this mixologist blends flavor and creativity into every cocktail she creates. Tune in to hear how Lindsey Joyce s…
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On this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a clinician with a passion for serving up something smooth, stirred, and served straight up with a twist. From experimenting with unexpected ingredients to selecting the perfect glassware, this mixologist blends flavor and creativity into every cocktail she creates. Tune in to hear how Lindsey Joyce s…
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Don't Stop the Block: Transforming Pain Management with Regional Anesthesia
6:27
6:27
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6:27Surgery shouldn’t be a gateway to opioid addiction. In this First Case Articles on the Go episode, we explore how regional anesthesia and nerve blocks are transforming pain management, reducing opioid use, and improving surgical recovery. Listen now and find out why perioperative blocks are so important and how they're improving patient care. -----…
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Planet Assembly - Counting on Accuracy: The Power of a Well-Built Count Sheet
36:14
36:14
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36:14Why do some trays come together like a perfect puzzle, while others feel like a never-ending scavenger hunt for missing instruments? This week, we're joined by Jake McHugh, Clinical Education and Training Specialist with Agiliti, to dive deep into how count sheets can make or break your assembly workflows. From the frustration of vague descriptions…
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Learning how to scrub isn’t as simple as just watching a few cases and picking it up as you go—at least, not if we’re committed to keeping our patients safe. In this week’s episode of First Case, we dive into the complexities of learning to scrub, whether you’re starting from scratch in a formal surgical tech program, getting on-the-job training, o…
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How Do I... Engage Surgeons & Improve Workflow?
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39:27We desperately want our ORs to be efficient. So do our surgeons. So why does it feel like productive engagement and communication is often easier said than done? As daunting as it may sometimes seem, engaging with our surgeons is crucial to improving efficiency, communication, and collaboration in the OR. In this episode of First Case, we’re joined…
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Planet Assembly - Fast Track or Fault Line? Balancing Assembly Velocity with Vigilance
36:23
36:23
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36:23Which is more important in assembly: speed or safety? Quality or quantity? On this episode of Beyond Clean’s Planet Assembly, we sit down with Lindell Handy, a seasoned Sterile Processing traveler who's just about seen it all. From crushing productivity demands to stepping into departments with a whole different set of pressures, Lindell breaks dow…
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On this episode of our StreetClothes human-interest podcast series, we talk to a healthcare professional who finds calm, clarity, and a spark of creativity behind the lathe. For him, woodturning is more than just a hobby—it’s a release, a reset, and a reminder that even a simple block of wood can become something beautiful with time, focus, and the…
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On this episode of our StreetClothes human-interest podcast series, we talk to a healthcare professional who finds calm, clarity, and a spark of creativity behind the lathe. For him, woodturning is more than just a hobby—it’s a release, a reset, and a reminder that even a simple block of wood can become something beautiful with time, focus, and the…
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Green Initiatives, Financial Impact | Expert Series On-The-Go
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2:28On this week's edition of the Beyond Clean Expert Series On-The-Go, tune in for the conversation entitled, "Green Initiatives, Financial Impact," with our Multi-Tray Sterilization Expert™, Kelly Truppo. To hear more from this expert, follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn, or subscribe to the Beyond Clean mailing list by visiting: http://www.beyondclea…
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Cover It & Keep Going: The Clear Solution for Smarter Perioperative Workflows
35:24
35:24
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35:24Staffing shortages and burnout have left many ORs struggling to stay efficient — but what if there was a simple solution that gave you time back while also protecting your sterile field? In today’s First Case Vendor Spotlight™, we’re going to learn all about this time and staff saving solution with Laurel Stebbins, Clinical Manager, and Alex Navlet…
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In this week's Article On-the-Go, Lindsey Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR, shares a humorous glimpse into her experiences as a nurse on call in the CVOR. Known among her colleagues for her “black cloud” reputation, Lindsey recounts rushing into ECMO emergencies in the middle of the night, sometimes in pajamas or flip flops, with no time to spare and lives on …
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It’s here! Season 16 of the First Case podcast has officially dropped! We’re kicking off the season with a raw and relatable conversation all about the questions we don’t always feel comfortable asking in the OR — but need to. In this episode, we'll dive into the daily uncertainties that even seasoned professionals face and how to navigate those “I…
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Planet Assembly - Table Talk: Making your SPD Workstations Work
39:17
39:17
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39:17Multiple sizes of peel packs, indicators scattered everywhere, and that "mystery drawer" of surprises—if this describes your assembly area, you're not alone! In this Season 29 premiere of Beyond Clean’s “Planet Assembly,” Jenni Gibbs joins us to share how she transformed her department's assembly table chaos using 5S principles and ergonomic workst…
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Fighting Dirty in West Texas
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38:31What does it really take to #FightDirty out in West Texas? In this week’s episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, hosts Hank Balch and Dusty Glass sit down with Lea Clift to explore the grit, grace, and innovation powering Sterile Processing in rural West Texas. From her military roots to shaping the next generation of #CleanFreaks, Lea shares w…
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Defining Leadership: The Importance of Mentorship, Honesty, & Transparency
45:29
45:29
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45:29Season 15 has come to an end, and we're anxiously awaiting the launch of Season 16 on July 7, 2025! While we wait, here's a throwback to a great interview from Season 6! What makes a good leader? Are you only a leader if you have a title? Joining us to talk all things Perioperative Leadership is Jennifer Misajet, COO & CNO at Mercy One. In this fin…
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On this episode of StreetClothes, we talk to a healthcare professional who spends her time away from the hospital chasing trails and wide-open views. Whether she’s trekking solo through Iceland or tackling steep paths with friends, this adventurer finds peace wherever her hiking boots take her. Tune in to hear how Brenna Doran embraces the calm and…
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On this episode of StreetClothes, we talk to a healthcare professional who spends her time away from the hospital chasing trails and wide-open views. Whether she’s trekking solo through Iceland or tackling steep paths with friends, this adventurer finds peace wherever her hiking boots take her. Tune in to hear how Brenna Doran embraces the calm and…
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: SPD Recruiting & Retention in a Major Metroplex
38:10
38:10
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38:10Everything’s bigger in Texas—including the opportunities in Sterile Processing recruiting! In this week’s episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, hosts Hank Balch and Dusty Glass sit down with Shevelle Speed to talk career ladders, leadership, and what it takes to build (and keep!) a strong team in one of the country’s largest healthcare hubs. F…
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Infection Prevention: The Ultimate Play Call
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4:26In this week's edition of Articles on the Go, Chris Blevins, CST, FAST, draws a creative parallel between the strategic world of football and the high-stakes environment of the operating room. Just like a zone defense on the field, infection prevention in surgery relies on teamwork, precision, communication, and adaptability. From the offensive lin…
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Professional Coaching: Identifying Strengths & Revealing Blindspots
42:35
42:35
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42:35Season 15 has come to an end, and we're anxiously awaiting the launch of Season 16 on July 7, 2025! While we wait, here's a throwback to a great interview from Season 6! Can professional growth include coaching? How can a career coach help me personally and professionally? You are going to find out today as we sit down with Certified Professional C…
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Autoclaves Aweigh, My Boys! SPD & the Navy
34:11
34:11
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34:11Anchors aweigh, #CleanFreaks—it’s time to set sail on a one-of-a-kind SPD journey! On this week’s episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, hosts Hank Balch and Dusty Glass sit down with Nathaniel Gonzalez to dive into the fast-paced, high-stakes world of Sterile Processing in the U.S. Navy. From Navy boot camp to leading surgical support on land …
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Beyond the Tap: Why Water Quality Is Critical to Surgical Safety
48:29
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48:29When it comes to patient safety, we scrutinize every instrument—but how often do we scrutinize the water used to clean them? In today's First Case Vendor SpotlightTM, we’re addressing that critical, yet often overlooked, factor in our surgical and sterile processing outcome - water quality. Joining us is Jeffrey Paquet, CEO of VERDA Water Quality S…
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Put it on Paper: Writing Articles for Professional Publications
36:57
36:57
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36:57Season 15 has come to an end, and we're anxiously awaiting the launch of Season 16 on July 7, 2025! While we wait, here's a throwback to a great interview from Season 6! Have you ever thought about sharing your knowledge and expertise by writing articles for nursing magazines? How do you get started? Find out in this informative interview with Judy…
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On this episode of our StreetClothes human-interest podcast series, we talk to a healthcare professional whose passion for two wheels brings freedom, focus, and a whole lot of fuel to life outside the hospital. From the thrill of the throttle to the quietness of the long ride, this rider has discovered that nothing clears the mind quite like a full…
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On this episode of our StreetClothes human-interest podcast series, we talk to a healthcare professional whose passion for two wheels brings freedom, focus, and a whole lot of fuel to life outside the hospital. From the thrill of the throttle to the quietness of the long ride, this rider has discovered that nothing clears the mind quite like a full…
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: The Makings of a Sterile Processing Consultant
35:27
35:27
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35:27From East Texas roots to healthcare systems nationwide, Juan Ramos is proving just how far a career in SPD can take you. In this week’s episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, hosts Hank Balch and Dusty Glass sit down with Juan to trace his journey from CSR tech to Mercy Ships volunteer to seasoned SPD consultant. With equal parts heart and hust…
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Silent but Deadly: The Ever-Present Danger of Surgical Smoke
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4:51Surgical smoke isn’t just unpleasant—it’s dangerous. In our latest First Case: Articles on the Go episode, we shed light on the harmful particles released during common surgical procedures—and the risks they pose to perioperative professionals. Despite decades of research confirming the presence of carcinogens, mutagens, and infectious material in …
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Isolation or Teamwork: Hardwiring Collaboration Into Our Culture
36:06
36:06
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36:06Season 15 has come to an end, and we're anxiously awaiting the launch of Season 16 on July 7, 2025! While we wait, here's a throwback to a great interview from Season 6! Do you experience collaboration within the departments of your organization, or is each department isolated? Is it possible to measure the degree to which we are collaborating? Bro…
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Advocating (Well) for Your Department
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35:58
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35:58If you’re not advocating for your department, who will? It’s time to speak up—Texas style! On this week’s episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, Hank Balch flips the mic to talk with host Dusty Glass about the real-world challenges of advocating for your department—especially when upper leadership thinks everything is just fine. From sharpening…
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Planet Decontam: One Tech to Rule Them All? Tribal Knowledge & the Decon Risk
40:48
40:48
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40:48What happens when only one person in your department knows how to reprocess a certain tray? Or find the IFU for that rarely used scope? Or figure out why the cart washer stopped working—again? On this season finale episode of Beyond Clean’s Planet Decontam, Angela Russell joins us to tackle the real dangers of tribal knowledge in decontam. From unw…
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Chasing Your Passion: Educating & Advocating for CST Success
45:58
45:58
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45:58Season 15 has come to an end, and we're anxiously awaiting the launch of Season 16 on July 7, 2025! While we wait, here's a throwback to a great interview from Season 6! If you ask a patient who took care of them in the OR, they’ll definitely remember their surgeon, and they’ll probably remember their anesthetist and their nurse. But, do they ever …
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On this episode of our StreetClothes podcast series, we talk to two healthcare professionals who find comfort, creativity, and a little pinch of calm in the art of baking. Whether it’s homemade bagels, a failed bundt cake, or family traditions passed down through generations, these self-taught bakers have each discovered their own flavor of joy in …
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On this episode of our StreetClothes podcast series, we talk to two healthcare professionals who find comfort, creativity, and a little pinch of calm in the art of baking. Whether it’s homemade bagels, a failed bundt cake, or family traditions passed down through generations, these self-taught bakers have each discovered their own flavor of joy in …
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Leading with Purpose: Building Strong Teams, Texas Style
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31:53
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31:53SPD leaders don’t just manage—they mentor, motivate, and make big things happen. And in Texas, that’s how it’s done! This week, host Dusty Glass sits down with Felicia Sheriff for a heart-filled conversation about what it really means to lead with purpose in Sterile Processing. From creating a culture of trust to redefining employee onboarding and …
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Waiting for the Prep to Dry: Why Dry Times Matter
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4:11Surgical fires remain a serious—yet preventable—risk in the operating room. One critical safety measure? Adhering to the recommended dry times for alcohol-based prep solutions. In this episode of First Case: Articles on the Go, we examine the evidence behind dry time protocols, their role in preventing OR fires and surgical site infections, and the…
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Planet Decontam: Suit Up: PPE Essentials for Decontamination
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34:51Time to suit up, #CleanFreaks—because this week we’re tackling the real-world challenges of PPE! Join us as we sit down with Marcus Super from Mastel Surgical to explore what makes personal protective equipment truly essential in decontam. From one-size-fits-none challenges to breakthrough PPE innovations, Marcus explains why the right PPE is about…
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Beyond the Cut: When Medicine Meets Mortality
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29:07Autopsy tech Amanda Krygier joins us in the First Case season finale to pull back the curtain on a rarely discussed, deeply meaningful part of patient care - postmortem care. From collecting organs and evidence to comforting grieving families with answers, Amanda shares how compassion continues— even after life ends. In this episode, we explore: 🧠 …
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Powered Up: The Hidden Costs of Equipment Failure
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28:13Saddle up, #TexasCleanFreaks–because this week we’re tackling one of the sneakiest budget-busters in SPD—power equipment failures! Join Dusty Glass as he sits down with Elvis Lormeus, Corporate Product Manager at STERIS, to dive into the hidden dangers behind equipment breakdowns in Sterile Processing. You’ll discover how small missed steps in repr…
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