–PRIYANKA CHAKRABORTY, AMITY UNIVERSITY, KOLKATA
The stethoscope, primarily known as the “third hand” of the medical providers, surfaced as a potential vector of COVID-19 after several studies were made. It is believed that since a stethoscope plays an integral role between a patient and a provider and can possess as many microbes as present in one’s hand, the rate of microbe transfer could be much more than previously known. The Centre for Disease Control fears that since a stethoscope is a “non- critical” medical object, disinfecting it as many times as it comes in contact with any patient is absolutely necessary. Microbes can harbour on any surface for a long period of time and therefore the healthcare guidelines given to the medical practitioners have now been questioned.
In light of the current situation, it is suggested not to use personal stethoscopes and stress has been given on the usage of single patient disposable stethoscopes. But this has its drawbacks like the poor audio quality of the stethoscope, possible presence of contaminants and poor hygiene quality. A better alternative is presented in the recent paper in the form of a UV-LED case of a stethoscope, made from microbial copper alloys and disposable stethoscope covers. Another paper stated the development of a touch-free stethoscope diaphragm could potentially reduce the transmission of any virus to zero.
COVID-19 has repeatedly challenged the medical resistance of the world and the benefits of a stethoscope cannot be neglected. Having said that, the spread of the virus through it in the COVID centres is also a gospel truth. Recent studies proved that cardiovascular disease is mainly comorbid with COVID-19 infection, leading to severe outcomes. Also, reports have implicated COVID-19 virus in causing myocardial injury and left ventricular systolic dysfunction highlighting that the use of a stethoscope can in no way be avoided.
Believe it or not, in today’s era a stethoscope is both a profound utility and a prime vector of any virus. However, it is not possible to caste a stethoscope aside, therefore, an alternative solution and proper healthcare guidelines need to be in place to protect both the patient and the provider.
Also read: Identifying Host Factors to Inhibit Entry of SARS-Cov-2 And Ebola Virus
Citation:
Rajiv S Vasudevan, Khalid Bin Thani, Dhuha Aljawder, Samantha Maisel, Alan S Maisel, The stethoscope: a potential vector for COVID-19?European Heart Journal, Volume 41, Issue 36, https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehaa657
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