3M Littmann Cardiology III - User Manual

Cardio III ins 3/19/02 12:25 PM Page 1

Summary

Littmann Stethoscope Instructions for Use

Chestpiece Operation

Instructions on how to use the stethoscope chestpiece effectively, including side selection.

Tunable Diaphragm Frequency Adjustment

Guide on using the patented tunable diaphragm for listening to low and high frequencies.

Stethoscope Headset Adjustment

How to properly adjust the headset for a comfortable, acoustically sealed fit.

Chestpiece Diaphragm Removal and Cleaning

Steps for removing the diaphragm and cleaning the stethoscope chestpiece parts.

Adult Diaphragm Assembly and Replacement

Instructions for assembling and replacing the tunable diaphragm on the adult side of the chestpiece.

Pediatric Diaphragm Assembly and Replacement

Instructions for assembling and replacing the tunable diaphragm on the pediatric side of the chestpiece.

Conversion to Traditional Bell Mode

Guide on converting the pediatric side of the chestpiece to a traditional bell.

General Use and Maintenance Guidelines

Recommendations for general use, cleaning, and avoiding damage to the stethoscope.

Littmann Stethoscope Service and Warranty Program

Stethoscope 5-Year Warranty

Details of the 5-year warranty against defects in material and workmanship.

Service and Repair Contact Information

How to contact 3M for maintenance or repair services, including addresses.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

The 3M™ Littmann® Cardiology III Stethoscope is a high-performance auscultation device designed for medical professionals, offering exceptional acoustic performance and versatility. It is engineered to provide clear and accurate sound transmission for a wide range of diagnostic needs, from adult to pediatric patients.

Function Description

The primary function of the Littmann Cardiology III Stethoscope is to enable the auscultation of internal body sounds, such as heart, lung, and bowel sounds. Its innovative design incorporates a patented tunable diaphragm on both sides of the chestpiece, allowing clinicians to listen to different frequency sounds without needing to flip the chestpiece. The large side of the chestpiece is optimized for adult patients, while the smaller side is particularly useful for pediatric or thin patients, as well as for navigating around bandages or performing carotid assessments. This pediatric side can also be easily converted into a traditional bell by replacing the tunable diaphragm with the included nonchill bell sleeve, offering further versatility in sound detection.

The tunable diaphragm technology allows for the detection of both low and high-frequency sounds by simply adjusting the pressure applied to the chestpiece. Light pressure enables the user to hear low-frequency sounds, mimicking the function of a traditional bell. Firm pressure, on the other hand, allows for the detection of high-frequency sounds, similar to a traditional diaphragm. This seamless transition between frequencies enhances diagnostic efficiency and patient comfort.

The stethoscope's headset is designed for optimal acoustic seal and comfort. The eartubes are anatomically angled to align with the typical anatomy of the ear canal, ensuring that the eartips point forward when inserted. This design, combined with the patented 3M™ Littmann® Snap Tight soft-sealing eartips, provides an excellent acoustic seal, minimizing ambient noise interference and maximizing sound clarity. The eartips are designed for a comfortable fit and can be easily removed for cleaning or replacement.

The two-in-one tube design is another key functional feature, as it eliminates the rubbing noise that can occur with traditional dual-lumen tubing. This design ensures that the sounds transmitted through the tubing are clear and free from artifact, contributing to more accurate diagnoses.

Usage Features

The Littmann Cardiology III Stethoscope offers several features that enhance its usability in a clinical setting:

• Tunable Diaphragm: This feature allows for the detection of both low and high-frequency sounds on either side of the chestpiece. For low-frequency sounds (traditional bell mode), apply very light skin contact. For high-frequency sounds (traditional diaphragm mode), press firmly on the chestpiece. This eliminates the need to remove and reposition the chestpiece, streamlining the auscultation process.
• Dual-Sided Chestpiece: The large side is suitable for adult patients, while the small side is ideal for pediatric or thin patients, and for precise auscultation in difficult-to-reach areas.
• Convertible Pediatric Side: The pediatric side can be easily converted into a traditional bell by removing the tunable diaphragm and attaching the nonchill bell sleeve, which is included as a spare part. This provides flexibility for different patient populations and diagnostic preferences.
• Comfortable Headset: The anatomically correct headset is designed to provide a comfortable fit and an excellent acoustic seal. The eartubes are pre-angled to direct sound into the ear canals.
• Adjustable Headset Tension: The spring tension of the headset can be adjusted to suit individual preferences. To reduce tension, gently pull the eartubes apart until fully extended. To increase tension, squeeze the eartubes together where they enter the tubing.
• Soft-Sealing Eartips: The patented 3M™ Littmann® Snap Tight soft-sealing eartips provide a comfortable fit and an excellent acoustic seal, enhancing sound transmission and reducing ambient noise. They are easily attached and removed.
• Nonchill Rims and Diaphragms: The patient-friendly nonchill rims and diaphragms ensure comfort for the patient during examinations.
• Two-in-One Tube Design: This design prevents tube rubbing noise, ensuring clear sound transmission.
• Classic Tube Colors: The stethoscope is available in a selection of classic tube colors, allowing for individual preference.

Maintenance Features

Proper maintenance of the Littmann Cardiology III Stethoscope is essential to ensure its longevity and continued high performance:

• Cleaning the Chestpiece: The diaphragm and rim assembly can be removed for thorough cleaning. To remove, grasp the rim with thumbs and index fingers and roll it off the edge of the chestpiece. Separate the diaphragm from the rim. All parts can be cleaned in soapy water or wiped with alcohol. Ensure all parts are thoroughly dry before reassembly.
• Reassembly of Tunable Diaphragm (Adult Side): To reassemble, apply a small amount of talcum powder to the inside surface of the flexible edge of the diaphragm to facilitate assembly and maintain smooth low/high frequency alternation. Insert the flexible edge of the diaphragm into the groove of the rim, starting with the rim positioned above the legible side of the diaphragm. To attach the rim/diaphragm assembly to the chestpiece, engage the groove of the rim around the chestpiece at one point and slowly roll it around and over the edge using both thumbs. Visually inspect for uniform containment.
• Reassembly of Tunable Diaphragm (Pediatric Side): After removing the bell sleeve, separate the stiff diaphragm from the nonchill rim. Place the diaphragm on the pediatric side of the chestpiece, ensuring the flexible portion fits into the groove. Engage the groove of the rim around the chestpiece edge and slowly roll it around and over the edge using both thumbs.
• Eartip Cleaning: Eartips can be removed from the eartubes for thorough cleaning. They are pushed onto the end of the eartube and snapped firmly into place. To remove, pull firmly on the eartip.
• General Cleaning: The entire stethoscope can be wiped clean with alcohol or soapy water.
• Disinfection: If disinfection is required, the stethoscope may be wiped with a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution.
• Avoidance of Harmful Conditions: Avoid exposing the stethoscope to extreme heat, cold, solvents, and oils. Do not immerse the stethoscope in any liquid or subject it to steam sterilization.

The Littmann Cardiology III Stethoscope is backed by a comprehensive service and warranty program, reflecting the manufacturer's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. It is warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a period of five years.

3M Littmann Cardiology III Specifications