How to Clean a Stethoscope

How to Clean a Stethoscope

Extending the use and ensuring continued performance of your stethoscope is critical for assessment and treatment. Safety is also important for you and your patients. Disinfect without damaging your stethoscope and protect yourself and patients.

Stethoscope Cleaning Tip 1

Tip 1: What to Clean With

It is recommended to clean your stethoscope with a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution. Alcohol wipes are a great go to! You can also use a mixture of mild soap and water. Important Note: Do not use a hand sanitizer given there may be additives which may damage parts of your stethoscope. Do not immerse your stethoscope, soak in any liquid, or put it in any sterilization process.

Stethoscope Cleaning Tip 2

Tip 2: Protecting Your Stethoscope

Try to keep your stethoscope away from extreme conditions such as heat, cold, solvents, or oils as they may cause damage or poor performance. Store your stethoscope away from direct sunlight if able. This can prevent color fading or tube hardening. Prevent warping and bending by keeping your stethoscope out of confined and restrictive places. Do not keep around solvents and oils. To improve longevity, you can wear a collar to minimize skin contact.

Stethoscope Cleaning Tip 3

Tip 3: Deep Cleaning

Some stethoscopes allow you to remove ear tips, chestpieces, and diaphragms. Make sure to refer to your instruction manual about disassembling and reassembling. You can deep clean your stethoscope by using Tip 1 and disassembling your stethoscope. Make sure to allow the surfaces to dry before reassembling.

Stethoscope Cleaning Tip 4

Tip 4: Fixing Your Stethoscope

Stethoscopes are susceptible to wear and tear over time. Sometimes it is time for a replacement part of a new stethoscope. How do you know though? Here are some signs to keep in mind: wear, tear, weather exposure, cracked or hardened tubing, or obvious damage to parts of the stethoscope. If you notice any of these then do not hesitate to Contact Us, so we can get you a replacement part of help you find a new stethoscope.

If you have any questions or concerns then don't hesitate to contact us at (888) 822-8293 to speak to one of our Customer Service Representatives. Where people can reach people.

 

Sources:

BV Medical. 2023.
Littmann. 2023.

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.