ST108 in ASCs: A Clear Guide for Understanding and Implementation

Water and steam quality are critical considerations during the cleaning, rinsing, disinfection, and sterilization of surgical instruments. In August 2023, the ANSI / AAMI published ‘ST108: 2023 Water for the Processing of Medical Devices’ standard. This new standard, applicable to new and existing ASCs, addresses how the multidisciplinary team will develop a Water Management Program which ensures steam and water utilized in instrument processing meets quality standards.

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Apryl McElheny, MBA, MSN, RN, CASC, CIC

Prior to joining Progressive Surgical Solutions in 2022, Apryl served as the Clinical Director/Administrator, Quality Assurance Coordinator, and Infection Preventionist for the Laurel Laser & Surgery Center in Duncansville, Pennsylvania. A Registered Nurse with 17 years of experience, she has dedicated her career exclusively to the ambulatory surgery center environment.

In her current role, Apryl provides ongoing support to ASCs. Her areas of expertise include regulatory compliance, licensing, certification and accreditation, survey preparation, facility documentation development, staff training, infection control and prevention, and ASC operations and management.

Mrs. McElheny holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and a Master of Business Administration degrees (MBA). Current certifications include the Certified Administrator Surgery Center (CASC) and Certified in Infection Control (CIC). She has been an active member of APIC since 2011 and previously served on the CBIC Board of Directors (2021-2022).