The Utility of Real-Time Remote Auscultation Using a Bluetooth-Connected Electronic Stethoscope: Open-Label Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The urgent need for telemedicine has become clear in the COVID-19 pandemic. To facilitate telemedicine, the development and improvement of remote examination systems are required. A system combining an electronic stethoscope and Bluetooth connectivity is a promising option for remote auscultation in clinics and hospitals. However, the utility of such systems remains unknown.

Objective

This study was conducted to assess the utility of real-time auscultation using a Bluetooth-connected electronic stethoscope compared to that of classical auscultation, using lung and cardiology patient simulators.

Methods

This was an open-label, randomized controlled trial including senior residents and faculty in the department of general internal medicine of a university hos

SUBMITTER: Hirosawa T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8367161 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature