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Water: The Life’s Blood of Sterile Processing

Friday, August 15, 2025, 10 AM

This session presented by STERIS highlighted the often-overlooked but essential role of water in medical device reprocessing. Angela Ritchey explained how water quality impacts every step of the process—from initial rinsing to sterilization—and how impurities can compromise both equipment performance and patient safety.

Topics included the properties of pure water, types of impurities (such as dissolved solids, gases, pH imbalances, microorganisms, and endotoxins), and their effects on sterile processing. The session also covered water testing methods, practical considerations for managing water quality, and the importance of referencing the AAMI ST108 standard for regulatory guidance.

Facilities were encouraged to assess their water systems, tailor water quality to specific applications, and ensure proper testing and treatment are in place.

Key Takeaways:

  • Water impurities can significantly impact the safety and effectiveness of medical device reprocessing.
  • Understanding the types of impurities and how to test for them is essential for maintaining processing integrity.
  • Water quality requirements should be matched to the specific stage of reprocessing and type of device.
  • Facilities should review and optimize their water treatment processes.
  • AAMI ST108 is an essential reference for developing or improving water quality management in sterile processing departments.

Resources:
VIEW: Presentation slides
READ: Session notes
WATCH: Session recording (use this password to access the recording: wEc54@=z)

Presenter: Angela Ritchey, Clinical Education Specialist, STERIS

Continuing Education Credit: 
This program is approved for up to 1.0 hours of AEUs and up to 1.0 of IPCHs by BASC Provider #1417

  • AEU Content Area – Quality Management
  • IPCH Content Area – Surveillance, Data Collection & Analysis

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify the key characteristics of pure water and why they matter in medical device reprocessing
  • Recognize how various water impurities can compromise sterile processing outcomes and equipment integrity
  • Learn how to apply appropriate water testing methods to detect and address impurities that pose a risk to safe and effective reprocess


Questions? 
For more information, or to submit questions to be addressed during the session, please contact:
Laura Harris, MNASCA Executive Director
[email protected]