Hospital de Cruces, Bilbao:

 A Journey with STERRAD™ Systems That Transformed Our Sterilization Unit

Background: Sterilization Practices 30 Years Ago

At Hospital de Cruces in Bilbao, our Central Sterilization Unit began its journey more than 30 years ago using formaldehyde and ethylene oxide for low-temperature sterilization. At that time, the health and environmental risks these technologies posed were only beginning to be understood.

past

Challenge: Transitioning from Legacy Systems to Innovation

“Could a low-temperature sterilization system really deliver safe, effective results in such a short time—and without toxicity?”

When we received our first STERRAD™ 100S Sterilization System, we were intrigued—but skeptical. Could a low-temperature sterilization system really deliver safe, effective results in such a short time—and without toxicity? Coming from long, complex sterilization processes, it seemed almost too good to be true.

challenge

Adoption Journey: Learning to Trust the Process

“Each cancellation was not a failure—it was a safeguard.”

The early days weren’t without challenges. STERRAD™ Systems introduced a different approach—one that included safety-driven cycle cancellations. Initially, this created uncertainty. But over time, we realized these were signs of a system designed to ensure sterility. Each cancellation was not a failure, but a safeguard.
As our confidence grew, we adapted and learned to maximize the potential of the technology.
 

today

Today: STERRAD™ Systems at the Heart of Our Sterilization Unit

“To us, STERRAD™ Systems are more than equipment—they represent a responsibility."

Today, we use two STERRAD™ 100NX Sterilization Systems at Hospital de Cruces. These systems are now integral to our operation. We even assign a dedicated technician per shift to ensure each cycle is carried out with maximum precision and expertise.
To us, STERRAD™ Systems are more than equipment—they represent a responsibility. Each cycle reflects deep knowledge of materials, technology, safety protocols, and monitoring. That’s why we entrust this task only to experienced and trained staff.
 

results

Results: Tangible Benefits That Support Our Mission

“Choosing the right sterilization technology doesn’t just improve efficiency—it helps deliver safer, higher-quality healthcare.”

Among the many advantages STERRAD™ Systems offer, two stand out:
•    Short cycle times, which help streamline workflow without compromising safety
•    Prion inactivation, which plays a key role in infection prevention

After so many years in the Central Sterilization Unit, we know that choosing the right sterilization technology doesn’t just improve efficiency—it helps deliver safer, higher-quality healthcare.

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