Can education influence stethoscope hygiene?

Publication date: 1 July 2017
Source:American Journal of Infection Control, Volume 45, Issue 7
Author(s): Jürgen L. Holleck, Naseema Merchant, Shin Lin, Shaili Gupta
The importance of stethoscope hygiene has been demonstrated in prior studies, and is acknowledged by guidelines, yet it is rarely done. We implemented a pilot project consisting of provider education, reminder flyers and provision of cleaning supplies at the start of clinical rotations for housestaff, medical students, and attending physicians. Hand hygiene rates did not change significantly with rates between 58% and 63% while stethoscope hygiene remained at zero.



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