Mechanical and Chemical Cleaners

Content Type icon

CONTENT TYPE

VR, ILV, 3D, Interactive Modules

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DURATION

2.5 Hours

Target Audience icon

TARGET AUDIENCE

Sterile Processing Technician / Allied Health Learners

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COURSE DELIVERY

VR or Web-based

Credits icon

Credits : 0.3

Icons representing a four-step workflow: Learn, Assess, Evaluate, and Implement

About the Course:

The Mechanical and Chemical Cleaners microcredential equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills required to effectively clean, decontaminate, and prepare reusable medical instruments for sterilization. Through immersive VR simulations, learners will explore the proper use of mechanical cleaning equipment and chemical cleaning agents commonly used in sterile processing departments. 

The course emphasizes safe handling procedures, cleaning agent selection, equipment operation, contamination control, and adherence to industry standards to ensure instruments are thoroughly cleaned and ready for subsequent sterilization processes.

Learning Objectives:

  • Explain the importance of mechanical and chemical cleaning in the sterile processing workflow.  
  • Identify various mechanical cleaning systems, including ultrasonic cleaners, washer-disinfectors, and automated cleaning equipment.  
  • Recognize different chemical cleaning agents and their appropriate applications for instrument decontamination.  
  • Perform proper cleaning procedures using mechanical equipment through VR-based simulations.
  • Apply manufacturer instructions for use (IFUs) when selecting cleaning methods and chemical agents.
  • Follow safety protocols for handling chemicals, contaminated instruments, and cleaning equipment.  
  • Identify factors that may affect cleaning effectiveness, including water quality, chemical concentration, temperature, and contact time.

Course delivered via LMS and requires an Oculus VR headset for hands-on VR simulations.

Image showing sterile processing workflow using washer disinfector equipment

 

Workforce Development

Image showing washer disinfector operation and infection control procedures

At ImmerseLearn, we prepare Sterile Processing Technicians to safely and effectively utilize mechanical cleaning equipment and chemical cleaning agents to support high-quality instrument reprocessing. This microcredential strengthens learners' ability to reduce contamination risks, improve cleaning outcomes, and maintain compliance with healthcare sterilization standards.

Mechanical Cleaning Equipment
Engage in VR-based scenarios to operate ultrasonic cleaners, washer-disinfectors, and automated cleaning systems while following proper loading, cycle selection, monitoring, and maintenance procedures.
Chemical Cleaning Agents+
Explore interactive modules that demonstrate the selection, preparation, handling, and application of detergents, enzymatic cleaners, disinfectants, and other cleaning solutions used in sterile processing environments.
PPE, Safety & Hazard Control+
Learn how to properly use PPE, handle hazardous chemicals safely, interpret Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and follow contamination prevention protocols during cleaning and decontamination activities.
Cleaning Verification & Quality Assurance+
Apply best practices for cleaning inspection, equipment monitoring, process verification, documentation, and quality control to ensure instruments meet cleanliness standards before sterilization.

By completing this microcredential, learners will gain the skills and confidence to safely operate mechanical cleaning equipment, properly utilize chemical cleaning agents, and effectively decontaminate reusable medical instruments while maintaining compliance with industry standards and supporting patient safety.

Apply PPE use, infection control practices, and proper unloading and transport techniques after cycle
completion. Understand workflow principles that prevent contamination, packaging compromise, and
handling errors.