Wisconsin CNA State Exam Vocabulary Practice

What does a stethoscope do?

1. A. Destroy all microorganisms

2. B. Listen to sounds in the body

3. C. Cause blockages in blood vessels

4. D. Measure stress levels

The correct answer is: B. Listen to sounds in the body

A stethoscope is an essential tool commonly used in medical settings to listen to internal sounds of a patient's body. It allows healthcare professionals, including Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), to assess vital signs by amplifying sounds such as heartbeats, lung sounds, and bowel sounds. By using a stethoscope, the caregiver can detect abnormalities in these sounds that may indicate health issues, guiding further diagnosis or treatment. The other options do not accurately describe the function of a stethoscope. Destroying microorganisms pertains to disinfection processes and not the purpose of a stethoscope. Causing blockages in blood vessels is contrary to any medical tool's intention, as it describes a pathological condition rather than a function. Measuring stress levels is typically done through subjective assessments or specialized tools not related to the use of a stethoscope. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the stethoscope's primary role as a listening device in healthcare.