Which equipment is typically used to listen to heart sounds?

The stethoscope is the appropriate equipment for listening to heart sounds. It amplifies internal sounds of the body, particularly those from the heart, lungs, and intestines, allowing healthcare professionals to assess the functioning of these organs effectively.

The stethoscope has a chest piece with microphones that pick up the sounds; the healthcare provider listens through earpieces, making it an essential tool for examining cardiovascular health. By using a stethoscope, a CNA can identify heart rate, rhythm, and any abnormal sounds, such as murmurs, which can indicate underlying health issues.

The other options, while useful in clinical settings, serve different purposes. A thermometer is designed to measure body temperature, a sphygmomanometer is used to measure blood pressure, and a pulse oximeter measures oxygen saturation in the blood. These tools do not provide the capability to listen to heart sounds, making the stethoscope the specialized equipment necessary for this task.