The plugs of the stethoscope should be inserted in both ears in the direction of the auditory duct (in the direction of the nose) [Figure 11].
Figure 11: Placing the Stethoscope in the Ears
For auscultation of the heart, both the diaphragm and bell sides of the stethoscope are used. With the diaphragm side, the high tones in particular are heard well. The diaphragm side should be pressed firmly against the skin [Figure 12]. With the bell side, the low tones are heard well. The bell side should be held loosely against the skin.
Figure 12: Auscultation of the Heart