Skip to content
All courses
END 105
Term 2
3 credits

Washer-Disinfector Systems and Reprocessing Workflow

Students will explore the fundamental components and operational cycles of automated instrument cleaning and high-level disinfection systems. The course begins with an overview of safety protocols and regulatory guidelines pertinent to reprocessing, followed by a detailed examination of cleaning chemistries, water quality, and the mechanics of washing, rinsing, and disinfecting phases. Hands-on modules will provide practical experience with system setup, troubleshooting common errors, and performing routine preventive maintenance tasks. Emphasis is placed on understanding the critical parameters for ensuring effective reprocessing, including temperature, exposure times, and chemical concentrations. Students will also learn about validation procedures, quality control monitoring, and documentation requirements to maintain compliance and patient safety standards within the instrument reprocessing environment.

InstructorJacob Calhoun

Prerequisites

Course outline

Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.

01Introduction to Reprocessing: Principles and Standardslecture
02Fundamentals of Washer-Disinfector Technology and Operationlecture
03Water Quality, Detergents, and Chemical Agents in Reprocessinglecture
04Washer-Disinfector Cycle Phases and Performance Parameterslab
05Routine Maintenance and Operator Troubleshootinglecture
06Disassembly, Inspection, and Reassembly of Processed Itemslecture
07Washer-Disinfector System Components: Mechanical and Electricallecture
08Midterm Review: Weeks 1-7lab
09Advanced System Diagnostics and Error Code Interpretationlecture
10Calibration Procedures and Verification of Critical Parameterslecture
11Preventative Maintenance Schedules and Record Keeping (Assignment)lab
12Common Failures and Advanced Troubleshooting Strategies (Lab)lecture
13Validation, Performance Qualification, and Quality Assurancelecture
14Capstone Service Projectassignment

Syllabus

["Week 1: Introduction to Reprocessing Workflows and Safety Fundamentals","Week 2: Regulatory Landscape and Industry Standards for Reprocessing","Week 3: Principles of Automated Cleaning and High-Level Disinfection","Week 4: Components and Operational Cycles of Reprocessing Systems","Week 5: Water Quality Requirements and Filtration Systems","Week 6: Cleaning Agents and Disinfectants: Selection and Application","Week 7: System Setup, Loading Principles, and Cycle Parameters","Week 8: Performance Monitoring and Quality Control Indicators","Week 9: Routine Maintenance Procedures and Component Inspection","Week 10: Common System Malfunctions and Troubleshooting Techniques","Week 11: Validation and Verification of Reprocessing System Efficacy","Week 12: Documentation, Record Keeping, and Audit Preparation","Week 13: Advanced Reprocessing Challenges and Emerging Technologies","Week 14: Comprehensive Review and Practical Skill Assessment"]