Stethoscope Selection and Use

Measuring Blood Pressure

Stethoscope selection and use

A single tube scope vs. a dual tube scope has less chance of noise interference from the tubes banging together.
Longer stethoscope tubes decrease or soften the audible sounds.
The diaphragm (disc) of the stethoscope is best used for high-pitched sounds, and the bell (hollow cup) of the stethoscope is best used for low-pitched sounds. The Korotkoff sounds are accepted to be low-pitched sounds, and many authors recommend using the bell when assessing blood pressure. A diagram of a typical stethoscope is depicted to the right.

Section: Measuring Blood Pressure

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