A stethoscope is a medical instrument used by healthcare professionals to listen to internal sounds of a patient's body, primarily the heart and lungs. It consists of a long tube connected to a chest piece, which has one or two microphones that amplify sounds. This tool helps doctors and nurses assess a patient's health by detecting abnormal sounds, such as heart murmurs or lung issues. Stethoscopes come in various types, including acoustic, electronic, and ultrasound models. The most common type is the acoustic stethoscope, which relies on sound waves to transmit body sounds to the listener's ears. This essential tool is widely used in hospitals, clinics, and during routine check-ups.