What is the life expectancy of a stethoscope?
The average lifespan of a well-cared for stethoscope is about two years, but with heavy use and abuse, that durability diminishes.
Can I replace my Littmann tubing?
No worries. We offer affordable Littmann stethoscope repairs that include replacing the tubing, eartubes, diaphragm, rim, nonchill sleeves and eartips.
Why does my stethoscope tubing get hard?
Why does the tubing on my stethoscope become stiff and rigid after a period of years? The majority of tubing used on Littmann stethoscopes is made of PVC (polyvinylchloride), which becomes hard when exposed for long periods of time to the lipids found in human skin.
When should I replace my stethoscope?
every two years
Most manufacturers suggest replacing your stethoscope every two years. With proper care, however, you can prolong the life of your stethoscope beyond this time period, but you will need to be careful with it.
Can a stethoscope be broken?
Most sterilization processes are abrasive and harsh and will break or damage the stethoscope. The stethoscope should be kept away from extreme cold and high temperatures, oils, and solvents. The PVC material used to make the stethoscope can be damaged by very low or high temperatures.
Why can’t I hear out of my Littmann stethoscope?
Loose parts or damaged tubing can prevent sound transmitting properly. Bell / Diaphragm – On a double-sided stethoscope, either the bell or the diaphragm can be open at any one time. (This is switched by rotating the chest piece). If the bell is open, the diaphragm is closed and vice versa.
How often should a stethoscope be cleaned?
Just as we wash hands between each patient, clinicians should disinfect their stethoscopes after every patient assessment with a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe1 to help reduce the risk of patient-to-patient cross contamination. As clinicians wipe their stethoscope with alcohol, they are manually removing residue.
Can you replace the tubing on a stethoscope?
If your warranty has expired, we offer affordable repairs that include replacing the tubing, ear piece, diaphragm, rim, nonchill sleeves and eartips. 3M Littmann stethoscope spare parts and accessories are also available for purchase.
What is the tubing on a stethoscope called?
Acoustic tubes: The acoustic tubes are the hollow rubber-like tubes that connect the chestpiece to the ear tubes. Headset: This is typically the metal portion of the stethoscope.