What assessment technique is used to listen to heart and lung sounds?

The technique used to listen to heart and lung sounds is auscultation. This method involves using a stethoscope to amplify sounds produced by the heart and lungs, allowing healthcare providers to assess the function and detect any abnormalities, such as murmurs, irregular rhythms, or adventitious lung sounds.

Auscultation is a critical skill in clinical practice, as it provides direct information about the state of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Listening to these sounds can help in diagnosing various conditions, monitoring patient status, and determining the effectiveness of treatments.

Other techniques, such as palpation, involve feeling the body for abnormalities, and inspection involves visually examining the body. Documentation refers to the recording of findings rather than a technique for assessment. Thus, auscultation is the most appropriate method for this particular purpose.