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
The 3M Company is celebrating the acquisition of Littmann Stethoscopes 50 years ago. Oh if only Dr. David Littmann was able to see where healthcare and his stethoscopes have gone! I truly wonder what he would think about some of the technology we have today, and what we can and cannot do with it. Innovators … Read more
3M/Littmann offers one of the most robust warranty programs of any stethoscope manufacturer on the market. While rugged and reliable, manufacturing imperfections and damage events do occur with Littmann stethoscopes. In addition to their warranty period, 3M is good about offering reasonable repair options for those who find their stethoscope in need of restoration outside … Read more
Like all patient assessments, the assessment of the cardiovascular system and heart needs to be done in a systematic manner. Each patient should have the same general pattern of assessment and technique used. Developing a good technique for listening to the heart prevents key information from being missed, and helps the practitioner organize their thoughts … Read more