The vibration of the vocal chords as air circulates through the respiratory system makes different sounds depending on the conditions of the airways. Lung auscultation is the assessment of such noises through the use of tools like the stethoscope. Lung sounds may be abnormal or adventitious, meaning that noises may sound layered. These problematic noises may be caused by bronchitis, asthma, a foreign body, pneumonia, heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Due to the severity of some of these possible causes, healthcare professionals should have the ability to quickly identify the different lung noises so that underlying issues may be addressed.
Download a printable copy of the Guide to Lung Sounds
This reference correlates to the courses in the
Basic and Advanced Respiratory Education Package.