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MDRAO Announcements
December 2024

The year 2024 is winding down and the holiday season is upon us. As we reflect the year's activities, I can say that members benefited the most. There were education days conducted by the chapters spread out throughout the year. There were lots of activities from speakers sharing their knowledge and workshops showing their expertise about reprocessing of reusable medical devices. Current and new members showed interest in attending, and vendors and partners have expressed support of the organization. Networking and continuing education are the biggest drivers of member participation.

This is the year-end edition of the MDRAO News. The highlights would be the planning of 2025 MDRAO Conference that is currently in the works. Location and dates are on the upcoming events. We, MDRAO Executives, wish you all a Joyous Christmas Season and a Prosperous New Year.

 
UPCOMING EVENTS

 

GAMMA CHAPTER EDUCATION DAY – APRIL 12, 2025 OTTAWA, ONTARIO.

DETAILS TO FOLLOW

 

 
Steris Canada Sales ULC
Naylor Association Solutions
Articles Related to Sterilization and Decontamination
Reprocessed Single-Use Semicritical and Critical Medical Devices
CDA-AMC
In a project to find clinical evidence about the safety of reprocessed versus new single-use semicritical and critical medical devices, Canada's Drug Agency found that the available evidence was not sufficient to draw any broad conclusions.
 
A Review of Spaulding's Classification System for Effective Cleaning, Disinfection and Sterilization of Reusable Medical Devices: Viewed Through a Modern-Day Lens That Will Inform and Enable Future Sustainability
Science of The Total Environment
A recent review found that Spaulding's Classification System "remains applicable, but it needs updating for modern-day challenges and opportunities" such as those presented by automation.
 
Enhancing Oversight: Health Canada’s Regulatory Reform for Drug and Medical Device Recalls
BLG
Newly amended regulations regarding drug and medical device recalls, which came into force on December 14, "generally increase Health Canada’s post-market oversight of drugs and medical devices," according to a report from BLG.
 
Nova Scotia Health Leader Champions Medical Device Reprocessing (MDR) From High Schools to the National Stage
NS Health
Donny Leblanc, the incoming president of the Canadian Association for Medical Device Reprocessing, brings more than 30 years of experience in medical device reprocessing in Nova Scotia.
 
Nasal Rinsing Devices and the Risk of Infection
canada.ca
To reduce the risk of infection when using nasal rinsing devices such as neti pots and squeeze bottles, it's important to use boiled, distilled, or sterile water, clean the device thoroughly, and avoid sharing the device with others.
 
Medical Device Sterilization and Reprocessing in the Era of Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) Bacteria: Issues and Regulatory Concepts
Frontiers in Medical Technology
A 2021 report discusses the risks of improper sterilization in the era of multidrug-resistant bacteria.
 
Medical Device-Associated Healthcare Infections: Sterilization and the Potential of Novel Biological Approaches to Ensure Patient Safety
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
This article discusses potential new solutions for combating multi-drug resistant pathogens, including novel approaches to the sterilization and disinfection of medical devices and the use of certain biologics as antimicrobial agents.
 
Coverage of Glucose Monitoring Devices
Diabetes Canada
A new paper from Diabetes Canada points out that public coverage of glucose monitoring devices is inconsistent across Canada and offers recommendations designed to increase access to such devices, in addition to education and support.
 
Robotic Surgery in the Spotlight
McGill University Health Centre
Robotic surgery has come a long way since it was first developed in Canada in the mid-1980s.
 
SickKids Implants the First Responsive Neurostimulation Device in Canada to Treat Drug-Resistant Epilepsy
SickKids
Members of The Hospital for Sick Children's Comprehensive Epilepsy Program were the first in Canada to successfully implant a neurostimulation device designed to control seizures in those with epilepsy.
 
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Chapter Reports
Sigma Chapter December Report

As the year comes to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the accomplishments of the Sigma chapter over the past few months. Our members have worked diligently in maintaining the highest standards in medical device reprocessing, ensuring the safety and care of patients across the province. We’re proud of the dedication our members demonstrate in maintaining quality and safety standards throughout the year.

Key Highlights:

  1. New Board Members:  In May, three new members were elected to the Sigma chapter Executive Committee. We welcomed the following new members to the committee: Jodi Austin in the role of chapter President; Pamela Fields as Director of Education; Amy Gallagher as Treasurer.  The committee is also pleased for the return of Sherrie Morgan as Vice President and for the guidance of  Stacey Geilen as Past President.
  2. Collaboration with Provincial Partners: The Sigma chapter continues to strengthen relationships with provincial healthcare partners, working towards ensuring consistent practices and guidelines across Ontario. By collaborating, we can help support the overall healthcare system, ensuring that reprocessing remains a top priority.
  3. Member Engagement:  A special thank you to our chapter members for their continued commitment and enthusiasm. Your contributions help make the Sigma chapter a dynamic and supportive network for professionals in the field.

Looking Ahead to 2024:

As we look to the new year, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Our chapter will focus on providing relevant training, fostering professional development, and advocating for the importance of safe and effective medical device reprocessing.

A Heartfelt Christmas Greeting:

On behalf of Sigma Chapter, we wish all of our members, colleagues, and vendor partners a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! May the holiday season bring you joy, peace, and time to recharge with loved ones. We look forward to another year of collaboration, growth, and success in the medical device reprocessing field.

Let’s continue to work together to ensure that Ontario’s healthcare system remains safe and efficient. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to excellence.

Warmest regards,
Jodi Austin
President, Sigma Chapter

 
 

 

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