Rob McHawk

Biography

Rob is a Registered Nurse with significant experience in the perioperative setting, predominately in PACU.  With a key interest in perioperative clinical practice, management, quality and research Rob is currently completing his PhD.  His research looks at the implementation science around the introduction of a new PACU Score. 

Now working as the National Manger for Ethics in the Quality Assurance and Safety group at the Ministry of Health, he leads 7 National Ethics Committees which provide ethical advice for the committees, researchers, the Ministry and the Minister of Health.

Rob continues be active in the PNC over the years undertaking a number of roles, most recently as the National Committee Treasurer.

Presentation Topic

Decontamination and Sterilisation

Lorna Davies and Rob McHawk

This presentation will highlight   the guidelines, standards, legislation and research from New Zealand, UK, USA and WHO, concerning the decontamination and sterilisation process of reusable medical devices in the clinical setting.  The role of the nurse as the end user and patient advocate of this process will be highlighted with recent examples from around the world where the decontamination and serialisation process has failed.