Presence of bacteria on a surface doesn’t prove that it is a cause of infection, but better to be clean than sorry.
One of the instruments was found to be more contaminated with bacteria than the palm of a doctor’s hand after being used to examine 71 patients.
Among the microbes spreading from patients was the potentially deadly superbug MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus).
“From infection control and patient safety perspectives, the stethoscope should be regarded as an extension of the physician’s hands and be disinfected after every patient contact.”
Source: News.com.au
A different study found that nozzle triggers at gas stations were another place where you can find a lot of bacteria.