What item must be disinfected prior to or after each use?

Prepare for the New York Hearing Dispenser Test. Study with multiple choice questions and expert tips. Master the exam and achieve success!

The correct answer is the stethoscope coupler, which must be disinfected prior to or following each use to prevent the transmission of pathogens between patients. This component comes into direct contact with patients and, therefore, can harbor bacteria, viruses, or other infectious agents. Disinfecting it ensures that any contaminants are eliminated, thereby maintaining a safe environment for both the clinician and the patient.

While ear specula are also directly inserted into the ear and require proper cleaning or disposal after use, the emphasis on the stethoscope coupler highlights the importance of hygiene in non-invasive tools that might not be disposable. Tuning forks and timers, on the other hand, generally do not require the same level of disinfection as they are not used in direct contact with patient tissues or bodily fluids. This practice underscores the need for vigilance in maintaining hygiene standards, especially in a setting where infectious disease control is critical.

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