Stethoscope disinfection practices among doctors: knowledge, attitudes, barriers, and acceptance of UVC technology

Abstract

Abstract Background Stethoscopes are widely used across multiple patients and can serve as reservoirs of healthcare-associated infections if not disinfected. This study assessed doctors’ knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding stethoscope disinfection, perceived barriers, awareness and acceptance of UVC-based disinfection. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional survey of 118 questionnaires was studied. Questionnaires were conducted among doctors from multiple departments of a tertiary care hospitals. A structured self-administered questionnaire captured demographic data, knowledge, attitudes, self-reported practices, perceived barriers and views on UVC. Categorical data were summarized as frequencies and percentages. Disinfection practice was categorized as “optimal compliance” (after every patient), “minimal compliance” (at least once daily) or “sub-minimal” (less than once daily), and associations with selected variables were examined using chi-square tests. Results Although 69.5% recognized that stethoscopes can transmit infection and 66.1% were familiar with international guidelines, only 47.5% achieved a high knowledge score. Despite generally positive attitudes, only 37.3% reported disinfecting their stethoscope at least once daily, while 62.7% did so less frequently. Reported barriers included lack of time (49.2%) and lack of training (71.2%). Doctors reporting time constraints were significantly less likely to have optimal compliance than those without time constraints (20.7% vs. 53.3%, p < 0.001). Awareness of UVC disinfection technology was low (27.1%), but 62.7% were willing to adopt it if affordable. Good disinfection practice was more frequent among doctors who would definitely use a UVC device than among those unwilling to use one (60% vs. 11.1%, p < 0.001). Conclusion Stethoscope disinfection remains suboptimal despite moderate knowledge and positive attitudes. Addressing practical barriers and integrating rapid UVC-based disinfection devices may improve adherence to recommended stethoscope hygiene.