From Risk to Resilience: Implementing a High-Level Disinfection Quality Assurance Program

Session Description: High-level disinfection (HLD) is a cornerstone of infection prevention, yet many health systems face challenges with fragmented workflows, inconsistent documentation, and limited oversight. This 90-minute interactive workshop will provide participants with a practical framework for developing a comprehensive HLD Quality Assurance (QA) program that promotes safety, compliance, and continuous improvement.
Drawing from nearly a decade of experience leading HLD initiatives across a large academic health system, the presenters will share a replicable model for building a multidisciplinary QA structure. The session will explore how to conduct a thorough HLD risk assessment using a custom-built tool designed to evaluate reprocessing practices, infrastructure, environmental safety, and adherence to manufacturer instructions for use. Participants will learn how to design a rounding structure that incorporates observation, documentation review, demonstration, and staff verbalization to ensure consistent and safe practices.
The workshop will also address how to develop a training and competency framework tailored to various disinfectants and reprocessors, including automated systems. Attendees will examine strategies for engaging leadership, building partnerships, and fostering a culture of accountability through data-driven feedback and ongoing education. Real-world examples and interactive activities will guide participants in identifying gaps, prioritizing mitigation strategies, and implementing sustainable improvements.
By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with the tools and insights needed to elevate HLD oversight from reactive to strategic, ultimately reducing risk and enhancing patient safety across diverse care settings.

Silvera Ford

Infection Prevention Nurse 3, The University of Kansas Health System

Silvera Ford is a Board-Certified Infection Preventionist at The University of Kansas Health System. In this role, she collaborates across disciplines to ensure patients are cared for in a manner that prevents the spread of infection. Preventing infections is her passion. Some of her responsibilities include partnering with perioperative and procedural areas, construction liaison and overseeing the quality assurance program for high level disinfection. For the last twenty-three years, Silvera has been an Infection Preventionist during which time she has been an active member of the local and national Association of Professionals in Infection Control (APIC). Silvera is currently the Past-President for the local Greater Kansas City APIC Chapter and member of the national APIC Annual Conference Committee. She also has experience in presenting to diverse audiences at the local, national and international levels.

Anna Huber

Infection Preventionist, The University of Kansas Health System

Anna Huber is an Infection Preventionist with The University of Kansas Health System. In her role, she is a liaison for Perioperative and Procedural Services and the Critical Care division, including the Emergency Department. Anna graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Masters in Public Health, concentrating in Epidemiology. Anna’s passion lies in high consequence infectious diseases, working to prepare the frontline through education and providing resources for identifying HCIDs for prompt identification. She is the current Secretary of the Greater Kansas City APIC Chapter. In her free time, she enjoys knitting, researching historical plagues and listening to This Podcast Will Kill You.