A dual head stethoscope is one of the most common types of chestpiece that many medical professionals use these days. Thanks to its overall functionality and usage, this type of stethoscope is very versatile. And this is why it has become the most conventional stethoscope in recent times.

By and large, the chestpiece of a stethoscope comes in two types. One is the single head type and the other is the dual head type. Although dual head chestpiece is the more common choice of every doctor and nurse today, each of the type has its own advantages and drawbacks.

Do you know what these pros and cons are? And if you do, what type of chestpiece would you want for your stethoscope? Have you decided yet?

If these questions apply on your current situation, then it seemingly appears that you’ve come to the right place. But if in case that you are looking for a more general look on different stethoscopes today, you may want to check the most recommended stethoscopes by many professionals on the market recently.

Even so, if you are still deciding whether to get a single or dual head type of chestpiece, then read on!

The Chestpiece of A Stethoscope

Apparently, the chestpiece of a stethoscope is one of the most crucial parts of a stethoscope. Although all aspects and parts of the instrument are very essential and important as they have their own roles to play, the chestpiece is actually the first line of defense in every stethoscope.

As it happens, the chestpiece is the main part that is responsible for capturing the sounds. So, it is considered to be the first part that works when a stethoscope is being used by either a doctor or a nurse.

As you may know, stethoscopes are devices that are mainly for auscultation. And whether it may be for the lungs or the heart (or even other parts of the human body), stethoscopes will help the medical professionals to listen to the sounds of your body.

Certainly, you already know how stethoscopes work in general. And as everyone would recall it, the first thing that any doctor or nurse would do when using them is to apply the head of the stethoscope over the skin of the patient. Well, obviously, this is aside from wearing the stethoscope and plugging the earpiece onto the ears of the user.

Now, the head that is being applied on the skin is basically the chestpiece. Accordingly and as mentioned, this aspect is the one responsible for capturing the sounds. In short, this is where everything starts when a stethoscope functions. So, it is very essential to have a very effective and efficient chestpiece.

Types of A Chestpiece

Normally, there are two types of a chestpiece. As mentioned in the previous portion, users can choose between the single type and dual type. Although it is considered that there are technically three types, the third one largely falls under the digital types or the electronic stethoscope. Hence, most people would already exclude this type when tackling about the conventional chestpiece.

Single Head Stethoscopes

A singe head stethoscope is basically a chestpiece that has only a diaphragm. Hence, the users can only use one side of the chestpiece. Typically, this kind of stethoscope is used for medium frequency of sounds. And since it only offers one side of the chestpiece, the functionality is very limited.

Nevertheless, there are still great single head stethoscopes that can compete with the other type. However, these instruments are not very recommendable for critical applications and uses. And as it appears, they are much more ideal for assessments and other physical test purposes only.

Also, they are seen to be ideal for sphygmomanometer uses.

Dual Head Stethoscopes

As for the dual head stethoscope, this instrument is very versatile. This is because the chestpiece offers both sides of the head. The side that has the larger diameter and area is called the diaphragm while the other side or the smaller one is also known as the bell.

The diaphragm is largely for high frequency of sounds. Conversely, the bell is for lower and more focused frequencies of sound. So, the users can typically change sides while using the stethoscope.

More often than not, stethoscopes that are designed for critical uses and purposes are the duel head types. And you can find a great example of this type here in this MDF Instruments MDF ProCardial ER Premier Cardiology Stethoscope review. So, if you are looking for one, then you might want to check this stethoscope.

Advantages and Disadvantages of A Dual Head Stethoscope

Having a dual head stethoscope is very essential, especially if you are a doctor whose field lies in the critical department. This means that patients that you usually work with have a much serious condition than the others. And if this applies on your current career or job, then it is very recommendable for you to have your own dual head stethoscope.

Aside from being a very versatile instruments, this type of chestpiece in a stethoscope can further help you maximize your skills and knowledge when it comes to auscultation. Also, these types are found to be very effective in diagnosis and assessments.

However, this may cost much more than the single head types of chestpiece. For some reason, a dual head stethoscope consists of a much more meticulous design and structure. And not to mention, the dynamics and mechanics of the stethoscope is pretty much different from the other type.

Although these differences are not that big of a kind, still, the design and material are the factors that affect the cost and quality. And if the cost play a huge role in your buying decision, you may want to check a few single head chestpieces for your stethoscope.

But, it is important for you to note that this will still depend on your requirements. Therefore, it is dramatically essential for you to weigh your options. Besides, stethoscopes must be treated as investments. So, it is not really a loss on your part when buying these kinds of stethoscopes.

If you want more information about the dual head stethoscope, you may check this quick video: