Abstract: A stethoscope with a body and a diaphragm comprising a flexible enclosure containing an incompressible liquid suspended in the stethoscope body with a reticulated foam pressure pad located below the diaphragm and inside an inner perimeter of the body. Optionally, the diaphragm has a cap over a top end of the suspended flexible enclosure, preferably made from copper in order to provide antimicrobial properties.

Abstract: A first embodiment comprises a stethoscope with a body; a diaphragm; and an integral annular axially compliant suspension. The annular axially compliant suspension is located below the diaphragm and inside an inner perimeter of the body. Optionally, an axially compliant reticulated foam pressure pad is located within the annular suspension, and the diaphragm is a very thin foil, preferably made from copper, to provide antimicrobial properties. In a second embodiment, a stethoscope with a body and a diaphragm having a flexible enclosure containing an incompressible liquid suspended in the stethoscope body and a reticulated foam pressure pad below the diaphragm and within the body is disclosed. Optionally, the diaphragm has a cap over a top end of the suspended flexible enclosure, preferably made from copper to provide antimicrobial properties.