Decontamination and cleaning:

• Reprocessed pulse oximeter sensors are initially inspected for visible damage such as exposed wires or cosmetic blemishes
• Any device that does not meet Stryker’s strict quality standards is rejected
• Cords and plugs are wiped down with medical grade cleaners and disinfectants
• The tape covering sensors and patient contact surfaces is removed and replaced with medical grade adhesive tape

Performance testing and inspection:

• A simulator is used to test every pulse oximeter sensor for electrical continuity, signal output (LED) and reception of transmitted signal (Photo Detector)
• If applicable, devices with alarm recording capability are electronically altered to prevent data from being read/written during the device’s next clinical use
• Every pulse oximeter is inspected throughout various steps of the production process for presence of debris, contamination, staining and overall device integrity

Quality control:

• Routine quality control audits are completed to ensure process integrity
• Reports are provided to senior management for operating line performance and control
• Additionally, finished product performance attributes including cleaning end points are routinely subjected to random sampling and testing

Pulse oximeter sensors should be collected in designated wall, 1, 2 or 4-gallon collection containers placed throughout the hospital, often found in soiled utility rooms.

Savings Direct is a program that enables healthcare organizations to manage their reprocessing programs internally, and is designed to support their efforts to reduce supply costs and environmental impact. Participating organizations drive collection and shipment of single-use devices (SUDs) to potentially maximize their savings.