The
stethoscope is an acoustic medial device for auscultation, or listening to the internal
sounds of an animal or human body. It is often used to listen to lung and heart sounds. It is also used to listen to intestines and blood flow in arteries
and veins. In combination with a sphygmomanometer, it is commonly used for
measurements of blood
pressure. Less
commonly, "mechanic's stethoscopes" are used to listen to internal
sounds made by machines, such as diagnosing a malfunctioning automobile engine
by listening to the sounds of its internal parts. Stethoscopes can also be used
to check scientific vacuum chambers for leaks, and
for various other small-scale acoustic monitoring tasks. A stethoscope that
intensifies auscultatory sounds is called phonendoscope.
Current practice:
Stethoscopes are
often considered as a symbol of healthcare professionals, as various healthcare
providers are often seen or depicted with stethoscopes hanging around their
necks. A 2012 research demonstrated that among several icons of healthcare, the
stethoscope had the highest positive impact on the perceived trustworthiness of
the practitioner.
Types
of stethoscopes:
1.
Acoustic
2.
Electronic stethoscope
3.
Recording stethoscopes.
4.
Fetal stethoscope:
5.
Doppler stethoscope:
Stethoscope earpieces: Stethoscopes usually have rubber earpieces which aid
comfort and create a seal with the ear improving the acoustic function of the
device. Stethoscopes can be modified by replacing the standard earpieces with
moulded versions which improve comfort and transmission of sound. Moulded
earpieces can be cast by an audiologist or made by the stethoscope user from a
kit.

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