As discussed last week, the healthcare industry contributes to solid waste production, greenhouse gasses, and climate change. While a true statement, the news is that there are also ways that healthcare can reduce the impact it has on the environment, while reducing costs. Simply consider the costs involved each time a set is wrapped in disposable blue wrap and the time it takes as well. Rigid reusable sealed sterilization containers are one of the best options for reducing hospital waste and creating efficiencies. Nevertheless, not all containers are created equal.

Let’s look at how rigid reusable sterilization containers can simultaneously reduce waste and provide a substantial “Return on Investment” (ROI). Simply consider the cost of wrap, the expense related to corner protectors, belts, tape, even a tray liner to avoid tears…all of which needs to be purchased and disposed of after a single use. Then, there is the time required to wrap each set, and re-process it in the event of tears, and then an additional step in the OR to inspect the wrap for punctions and abrasions. Consider the time lost when a set is wet or has a torn wrapper. Not only is cost involved, but the OR schedule gets backed up (at $100 per minute as an average this can add up to major losses).

Loaners typically come into the facility in various shapes and sizes requiring immediate attention and a range of blue wrap kept in inventory for only a single use. Add to this the current supply chain shortage of wrap and accessories. Universal containers, like our SteriTite system, meet the criteria for compatibility and reusability. In fact the SteriTite container was designed originally for loaners to be highly durable. That in itself is a cost savings as SteriTite containers don't need to be repaired or replaced as frequently as other brands. Further, duplicate containers are not needed for different sterilizers or devices, another savings.

Sustainable organizations strive to balance the triple bottom line of people, planet, and profit to achieve success and viability. While reusable products have advantages over consumables and single use products, not all containers have the same features and benefits…only a few are DIN sized for compatibility with DIN sized loaner sets, only one can be dried in 5 to 8 minutes for rapid turns, only one is anodized and passivated for both steam and low temperature sterilization, and has a knife edge fit and offset retention plate for sterility maintenance. While we may not solve all the world’s problems related to sustainability, climate change and patient safety, a SteriTite container can certainly make strides to reduce waste, create efficiencies, reduce energy consumption, and contribute to the bottom line.  Instead of paying for all the consumables and single use items each time a set is processed, one container and a budget of less than a dollar per use increases productivity and contributes to overall sustainability.

Visit us at www.casemed.com to learn more about our products and how they can help your facility lighten its impact on the environment for the good of us all.