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Published on: June 7, 2017
Can education influence stethoscope hygiene?
Jürgen L Holleck1, Naseema Merchant1, Shin Lin1
1Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT.
Abstract:
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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