Stethoscope

STETHOSCOPE DEFINITION An instrument used for auscultation, or listening to sounds produced by the body. PARTS OF THE STETHOSCOPE

a. earpieces  should fit snuggly into your ear canal  should slope forward toward your nose b. tubing    

should have the appropriate internal diameter about 4 millimeters (1/8 inch) thick should be the appropriate length about 30 - 36 centimeters (12 - 14 inches) long

c. amplifying devices o diaphragm  end of the amplifying device that is large, with a flat edge  best for auscultating high-pitched sounds e.g., breath, bowel, and normal heart sounds  when used, should be held firmly against the patient's skin e.g., firm enough to leave a slight ring afterwards

o bell  end of the amplifying device that is small, with a hollow, cuplike shape  best for auscultating soft, low-pitched sounds e.g., extra heart sounds and murmurs  when used, should be held lightly against the patient's skin e.g., just hard enough that it forms a perfect seal

rsv ‘09