Earpiece The earpiece allows for a tight seal between the user and the tubing of the stethoscope. They are commonly found in either plastic or rubber. Ear Tubes or Binaural The ear tubes aka binaural, help provide a rigid structure for the user end of the stethoscope. In combination with the spring they help to … Read more
The origin of the stethoscope can be traced back to 19th Century France. René-Théophile-Hyacinthe Laennec was a French physician who was uncomfortable placing his head on the chest of women to listen to their hearts. His invention of the what he called the stethoscope can be pinned to the year 1816. The original stethoscope was … Read more
Stethoscopes are not just for use by doctors. If there was any question about that then the firestorm surrounding Miss Colorado and some uneducated comments from the Joy Behar of ‘The View’ fame has put that to rest. When she stepped before the cameras Miss Colorado Kelley Johnson probably had no clue that her outstanding … Read more
Crackles are a common sound auscultated in the lungs. They are also sometimes referred to as crepitations, or rales. Crackles are caused by the sudden opening of smaller airways and alveoli collapsed by fluid or secretions. Crackles are classified by several different factors. Their pitch and sound characteristics Fine- high pitched and brief Medium Coarse- lower … Read more
We can’t avoid the presence of germs on our stethoscopes. It is just a part microbiology and the world we live in. Unfortunately, in the process of caring for multiple patients we have the potential to carry these contaminants between patients. Potentially causing an infection that could have otherwise been prevented. The stethoscope becomes a … Read more
Stethoscopes are a tool. The people using stethoscopes are skilled workers. Many users are masters of their trade and specialty. Much as a mechanic might wear out a good wrench, individuals working in the medical field eventually reach a time when they need to part ways with their trusty stethoscope and find a new model. … Read more
The stethoscope is established as an icon and key diagnostic tool in medical care. For the better part of 200 years it has steadily climbed to have significant symbolic status, as well as saturation in our healthcare system. Some industry experts and medical professionals are beginning to question what the future holds for this device … Read more
Over the weekend we spotted this cool new stethoscope accessory called StethoSafe that is currently in development. StethoSafe appears to answer the need for protection of your stethoscope’s chest piece. If you have ever had your diaphragm or bell damaged during transport this might be the product for you. It is an easy access slip … Read more
While the use of various metals for their anti-microbial properties is not a new concept, a recent study published in the American Journal of Infection Control is pointing to the potential hygiene benefit of of copper as a primary metal in stethoscopes. The full text of the study, Antimicrobial copper alloys decreased bacteria on stethoscope surfaces, describes the … Read more
Counterfeit merchandise is a global problem facing consumers. Last year counterfeit goods cost the global economy $481 billion. Knockoff goods are not isolated to Levi Jeans or Louis Vuitton purses, and the unsuspecting healthcare professional can find themselves buying a knockoff stethoscope. These purchases can cost the customer in two ways 1) Inferior quality/manufacturing standards, … Read more