How to Use a Stethoscope With Infants

Using a stethoscope is not as difficult as it seems; however, it is difficult to understand what sounds you are listening for when assessing the heart beat and lungs of an infant. If you have not been properly trained to do so, then leave this to a medically trained professional. However, if you woul like to get familiar with how to use a stethoscope, this is how it is done.

Things You'll Need

• Stethoscope
• Pacifier
• Medical gloves
• Quiet room

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Instructions

Equipment Check and Preparation

• 1

  Check the stethoscope to make sure it is not damaged. Make sure it has two ear buds and that there are no cracks in the tubing.

• 2

  Move the infant into a quiet room, free from background noise, so you will be able to listen without difficulty.

• 3

  Wash your hands with warm water and soap, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• 4

  Put on medical gloves.

• 5

  Insert the ear pieces into each ear, making sure they fit snuggly.

Stethoscope Placement and Positioning

• 6

  Grasp the bell between the first two fingers and thumb of your dominant hand.

• 7

  Position the bell of the stethoscope half an inch below the infant's left nipple to listen to the heart beat.

• 8

  Place the bell of the stethoscope above the left nipple, at the mid-point of the clavicle (or collar bone) to listen to the left lung. Do the opposite to listen to the right lung.