• All relevant infection control methods to be utilised.
• Explain the procedure to the patient.
• Expose the area to be auscultated, taking into consideration female patients and over exposure.
• Prepare stethoscope.

Chest

• Utilise the stethoscope and auscultate the patient’s chest in the different landmarks as set out in the diagram (1).
• Instruct the patient to inhale deeply while auscultating the chest.
• Listen for any abnormal sounds.
• Assess the air entry into the lungs by comparing bilaterally.
  

Abdomen

• Utilise the stethoscope and auscultate the patient’s abdomen in the different landmarks as set out in the diagram (2).
• Instruct the patient to relax and breathe normally while auscultating the abdomen.
• Listen for any abnormal sounds.
• Assess patient for any expression of pain.
• To confirm that bowel sounds are absent ideally listen continuously for 5 minutes (minimum 1 minute per segment).

Diagram 1 - Auscultation of the chest

Diagram 2 - Auscultation of the abdomen