Listening to the body remains a fundamental skill. A stethoscope is an acoustic instrument used by clinicians to hear internal sounds of the heart, lungs, vessels, and gut.

The device channels sound from a chest piece through tubing to earpieces. Bell and diaphragm modes emphasize different frequency ranges. Heart murmurs, abnormal breath sounds, bruits, and bowel sounds guide diagnosis when interpreted in clinical context. Electronic stethoscopes can amplify and record sounds.

Proper technique and a quiet environment improve what can be heard. Despite advanced imaging, bedside auscultation still detects findings that change immediate management. The stethoscope also remains a visible symbol of the clinical profession.

• Instrument for listening to internal body sounds
• Used on heart, lungs, vessels, and abdomen
• Requires technique and quiet conditions
• Complements but is not replaced by imaging