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The stethoscope is an auditory medical device used for listening to internal sounds inside a person or animals body. It has many uses and can listen to sounds of the heart, intestines, blood flow in arteries and veins as well as breathing. The stethoscope is the primary diagnostic instrument of all healthcare providers and is always a part of their uniform.
The acoustic stethoscope is normally what people think of when they refer to a stethoscope. This transmits sound from the head (diaphragm or bell) through hollow tubes to the listener’s ears. One issue with the acoustic stethoscopes is they have an extremely low volume. A person needs to listen very carefully. Even with the low sound, this type of stethoscope is most commonly utilized.
The electronic stethoscope operates basically the same way except it amplifies the sound electronically. Also known as the stethophone, this device is wireless, can record sounds and has features that the acoustic cannot give the user. This type can actually reduce the noise around it so the sound the listener is trying to hear is enhanced.
In 2001, personal computer based software was introduced which enables the stethoscope to be able to print a hard copy graph of the cardio and pulmonary sounds that are being generated. This option increases health care immensely in remote locations.
The fetal stethoscope is utilized for pregnant women. Also known as the fetoscope, is placed against the abdomen so that the physician can listen to the heart sounds of the developing fetus.
There are different types of stethoscopes available to the medical practitioner. There is the old standby the acoustic stethoscope that one normally thinks of. There is also the electronic stethoscope that can actually print off a graph regarding one’s heart or lung functions. This is great for in the field. Finally there is the fetal stethoscope that can assist the physician with listening for the fetal heartbeat. Stethoscopes are very valuable to the healthcare professional and keeping the patient healthy.
Jeffrey Ware
www.MedicalScrubsRus.com