What is an Amplified Stethoscope?

A stethoscope is a fundamental tool in any healthcare professional's arsenal, but what happens when you need to amplify the sounds you are hearing? This is where an amplified stethoscope comes into play. As a Hospital Medicine PA, I use my amplified stethoscope every single day to help me hear better in our busy hospital. Read this blog post to find out how an amplified stethoscope works, when it is useful, and if it is worth the investment.

How does an Amplified Stethoscope Work?

An amplified stethoscope, sometimes called a digital stethoscope, uses a microphone to augment the sounds heard through the chestpiece. The attachment process is simple - the amplifier is typically attached onto the tubing of the stethoscope, with the microphone positioned near the chest piece. Once attached, the amplifier will amplify the sounds heard through the stethoscope by a certain number of decibels, depending on the specific device. It works by picking up the sound waves with a small microphone within the amplifier and converting them into electrical signals that are then amplified and played through a speaker within the amplifier, providing the user with a louder, clearer sound, with some models even using ambient noise blocking technology. (The noise blocking technology is exactly what I LOVE about the Eko CORE Digital Stethoscope).

When is an Amplified Stethoscope Useful?

Stethoscope amplifiers can be helpful in a variety of situations, most importantly NOISY situations. They can make it easier to hear heart and lung sounds in loud environments like a busy ER or a chaotic scene or for patients with obesity or chest hair. Additionally, amplification can make it easier to distinguish between subtle sounds, which can be particularly helpful in diagnosing certain conditions.

One innovative application of stethoscope amplifiers is in the teaching of medical students and other healthcare professionals. By using an amplifier, instructors can share sounds with students and discuss what they are hearing in real-time using Bluetooth connectivity features. This can help to enhance the learning experience and make it easier for students to understand what they should be listening for.

Another benefit of stethoscope amplifiers is that they can be used to share sounds with colleagues or patients. For example, a healthcare professional may need to consult with a specialist who is not in the same location. By using an amplifier, the healthcare professional can save and share the sounds they are hearing with the specialist, who can then provide their opinion and diagnosis.

Do I need an Amplified Stethoscope?

In conclusion, stethoscope amplifiers can be an extremely useful tool for healthcare professionals in a variety of situations. Stethoscope amplifiers come in a range of sizes and styles, from small attach-on devices to larger handheld models. By amplifying the sounds heard through a stethoscope, they can make it easier to hear subtle sounds, diagnose conditions, and share sounds with colleagues, students or patients. If you are looking for a clearer sound when auscultating or if you are interested in sharing the sounds heard on a physical exam, a stethoscope amplifier may be a worthwhile investment to enhance your practice.