The nurse is teaching a group of unlicensed assistive personnel about the stethoscope. Which statements about the stethoscope are appropriate for the nurse to include in the teaching session?

Question

Select all that apply.
1. The stethoscope works by blocking out environmental sounds.
2. Short tubing provides the listener with the most accurate sounds.
3. The bell of the stethoscope is used for high-pitched sounds, such as lung sounds.
4. Cleaning the stethoscope is not necessary since it is not a vehicle for the spread of infection.
5. The binaurals should fit snugly in the ears.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 5
The stethoscope works by blocking out environmental sounds; it does not amplify sounds in the body. Short tubing provides the listener with the most accurate sounds; longer tubing may distort sound. The binaurals should fit snugly yet comfortably in the ears. The bell of the stethoscope is used for low-pitched sounds, such as the sounds of a heart murmur. The diaphragm is used for high-pitched sounds, such as normal heart sounds and lung sounds. The stethoscope should be cleaned after examining a client to prevent the spread of infection.