What could a nurse detect by using the bell of a stethoscope?

The bell of a stethoscope is specifically designed to pick up low-pitched sounds due to its shape and the way it transmits sound waves. This makes it particularly useful in auscultating certain heart sounds, such as those associated with heart murmurs, and some vascular sounds. Low-frequency sounds are often best transmitted through the bell, allowing the healthcare provider to detect specific conditions effectively.

For example, when assessing a patient’s heart, the bell can help identify the low-pitched sounds of diastolic murmurs or certain abnormal heart sounds. This specialized use of the bell allows nurses and other healthcare professionals to gain valuable diagnostic information during examinations.

In contrast, high-pitched sounds, which are better captured by the diaphragm of the stethoscope, would not be detected effectively using the bell. Abnormal breath sounds, while they can encompass both high and low-pitched sounds, would similarly depend on the diaphragm for identification; thus, they are not the primary focus of the bell's usage. Focusing solely on heart murmurs misrepresents the full capability of the bell, as it is effective in identifying any low-pitched sounds, not exclusively murmurs.