What is a stethoscope primarily used for?

The primary use of a stethoscope is for listening to the heart and lungs. This instrument amplifies internal body sounds, allowing healthcare providers to detect normal and abnormal sounds in these areas, such as heartbeats, lung sounds, and any irregularities that may indicate health issues.

While a stethoscope can play a role in assessing blood pressure in conjunction with a sphygmomanometer, it does not measure blood pressure on its own. Similarly, taking temperature and examining reflexes involve different tools and methods that do not utilize a stethoscope. Thus, the primary indication for a stethoscope is its capability to facilitate auscultation, making it essential for assessing the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.