The stethoscope diaphragm carries the same volume and diversity of pathogens as the Hand1
“Transmission of pathogens…by stethoscopes could undermine the benefits of hand hygiene programs”2
study: 489 sample surfaces
Conclusion: Stethoscope contamination is "substantial after a single physical examination and comparable to contamination" of the physician’s hand.
1-minute with alcohol wipe
Seldom performed
Ineffective against resistant pathogens
Surfaces often remain contaminated
CLINICIANS RARELY CLEAN THEIR STETHOSCOPES
Less than 4% of stethoscopes are cleaned between patients per CDC guidelines3
WHEN PERFORMED PATHOGENS USUALLY REMAIN
Contamination is reduced but not eliminated
after cleaning4
"Practitioner and patient room stethoscopes are colonized with nosocomial pathogens, and cleaning reduces but doesn’t always eliminate contamination”6
NEJM Journal Watch, January 7, 2019