The Best Ways to Clean a Stethoscope

Stethoscopes are a common sight in doctors' offices and hospitals. They allow the doctor, nurse, caregiver or EMT to hear the noises in your chest. Stethoscopes are an important tool in the health industry and must be cared for properly to remain in working order.

What is a Stethoscope?

• A stethoscope allows medical personnel to hear a patient's heartbeat along with other chest and cardiac sounds. Invented in 1816 at the Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital in Paris by René Laennec, the original stethoscope looked more like a trumpet than the modern stethoscope we see today. Stethoscopes have come a long way and are now available in a variety of colors and designs to fit the owners' unique personality and style.

Cleaning a Stethoscope

• Properly clean your stethoscope to prevent bacteria, germs and viruses from being spread from one person to another. The best way to clean a stethoscope is with a few common household items. No need to purchase expensive cleaning products when rubbing alcohol successfully cleans and disinfects your stethoscope.

  To begin cleaning the stethoscope, remove the rubber or plastic ear buds. They should easily slide off the earpieces. You can clean the ear buds by soaking them for 15 minutes in a solution of 3 cups of warm water and 1 tbsp. of antibacterial liquid dish soap. After the allotted time, gently rub the ear buds with a clean cloth dampened in the solution. Rinse the ear buds clean with cool water and wipe dry with a towel. Dampen a clean, lint-free cloth with rubbing alcohol. Begin at the bottom of the stethoscope and wipe with the damp cloth while moving upward. When the cloth becomes dry, reapply more rubbing alcohol to the cloth. After you have cleaned and disinfected the stethoscope, place it in a safe location and allow it to air dry.

Considerations

• Keep stethoscopes away from excessive heat, moisture and cold. Never use solvents and oils on or around the stethoscope. To keep the ear buds from becoming damaged, do not use rubbing alcohol to clean them. The alcohol can slowly deteriorate the rubber on the ear buds.

  If the stethoscope's tubing appears cracked brittle or ripped, replace the unit.

  Regularly clean your stethoscope --- after each patient if possible.