What types of stethoscopes are commonly used in healthcare simulation?

 

In healthcare simulation, several types of stethoscopes are commonly used, depending on the level of realism and interactivity required. Here are the main types:

  1. Standard Acoustic Stethoscopes
    • These are the same as those used in clinical settings.
    • Used mainly for basic auscultation practice on manikins or standardized participants (SPs).
    • Examples: Pocket Nurse® single-head or dual-head stethoscopes, Sprague stethoscopes, and more
  2. Electronic or Digital Stethoscopes
    • Amplify sound and often allow for recording and playback.
    • Useful in simulations requiring auscultation of subtle or abnormal sounds.
    • Examples: Cardionics E-Scope II and Hearing-Impaired E-Scope
  3. Simulated (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Enabled) Stethoscopes
    • Paired with high-fidelity manikins or simulation software.
    • Learners hear programmed heart, lung, or bowel sounds via the device.
    • Example: Cardionics SimScope®
  4. Augmented Reality (AR) or Smart Stethoscopes
    • Integrated with visual cues or on-screen feedback.
    • May be linked to mobile apps for advanced learning.
    • Example: Nasco Healthcare SmartScope