Stethoscope cracked

[ShayRN]

I have been using Littman Cardiac Stethoscopes since I graduated college. I am on my second one, because the tubing keeps cracking. The last time I didn't think much of it, because the women I worked with told me that it was because I cleaned it with alcohol swabs. But, I haven't done that at all with this one, just wipe it down with a dry wash cloth. Is anyone else having this problem?

[Indy, LPN, LVN]

I hear that if you use armor all wipes on the tubing it will prolong the life of it and keep it from cracking.

[CT Pixie, BSN, RN]

Constant use of alcohol wipes on the tube can lead to breakdown of the material and lead to cracking (just like our hands look if we use too much Purell). Also, I don't know how you "wear" your stethoscope but I was told by several people and I think I even read it online on one of the stethoscope sites, that the oils from your neck and hair can cause the tubing to break down and crack..don't know how true it is but after I heard that, I stopped wearing my around my neck when i didn't have to.

[Katnip, RN]

I heard the same about the skin oils. You can send your Litman in to have the tubing replaced at a very reasonable price. It's much cheaper than buying a new one. Check their website for info on refurbishing.

[prmenrs, RN]

I agree about the skin oils--you may notice that the tubing gets stiffer, and even takes the curve of your neck.

You should be able to get tubing online, lots of sites have "parts". Also look for a "scope coat". It goes over the tubing and protects it. (You need to wash it every so often, it gets germy.) Here's one type: http://www.tafford.com/detail.htm?pkey=221 and http://www.allheart.com/ae101262.html

And here's a site for parts: http://www.steeles.com/catalog/3maccessories.html

[JuLyAnGeL]

Hello,

Im in my second year of nursing too, yep im sharing you the same problem , also when i use stethoscope it cracked also so even i dont use it or i deep on my hand more than the stethoscope ..........I wonder wat is the solution of such problem?!!!!!

I think with experience we will get over this problem with you all the best ............................

[allele, LPN]

I've heard everything everyone said before me. lol Skin oils, alcohol break down the tubing...make it dried and cracked. I was told when I bought mine years ago that I should use armor all once a month, etc. I actually have two Litmann's (one has sentimental value and I don't like bringing it to work, I've had one stolem before), so when I had my usual one refurbished I used my "back up". I've had one scope for 10 years and one for 7 years, and I've only sent each one in to be refurbished once. I don't use the armor all, but I don't hang it on my neck or use alcohol on the tubing, they've been fine. Send it in to 3M...I think it cost me about $60 or so...and they'll replace the tubing and refurbish the scope. Good luck! :)