What instrument is typically used for auscultation?

A stethoscope is the instrument typically used for auscultation, which is the process of listening to internal body sounds, particularly those of the heart and lungs. By using a stethoscope, healthcare professionals can detect normal and abnormal sounds, such as heartbeats, breath sounds, and bowel sounds, which are essential for diagnosing various medical conditions. The stethoscope amplifies these sounds, allowing for a clear assessment of a patient's health.

In contrast, a sphygmomanometer is used to measure blood pressure, a thermometer measures body temperature, and a pulse oximeter assesses oxygen saturation in the blood. While these devices are crucial in a clinical setting, they are not designed for auscultation. This highlights the specialized role of the stethoscope in evaluating cardiovascular and respiratory health.