Question

When using and maintaining your stethoscope, it is important to

a. insert the earpieces at an angle toward your nose.
b. use the diaphragm for listening to low-pitched sounds.
c. drape the stethoscope over your neck when not in use.
d. clean your stethoscope by immersing it in soapy water.

Answer 1

To maintain a stethoscope, insert the earpieces angled towards your nose for proper fit, use the diaphragm for high-pitched sounds, and clean it with alcohol wipes rather than immersing it in soapy water.

Step-by-step explanation:

When using and maintaining a stethoscope, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure effective auscultation and prolong the device's lifetime. Firstly, inserting the earpieces at an angle toward your nose helps them to align with the ear canal, providing a clear sound transmission path. In contrast, using the diaphragm of the stethoscope is actually meant for listening to higher-pitched sounds like breath, bowel, and normal heart sounds; lower-pitched sounds are better heard with the bell. Draping the stethoscope over your neck can be a common practice amongst clinicians for convenience, but it should be done with care to avoid skin oils and sweat from deteriorating the tubing. Lastly, one should avoid cleaning the stethoscope by immersing it in soapy water as it could damage the device; instead, cleaning should be done with alcohol wipes or a damp cloth and appropriate disinfectant.