S1 Heart Sounds

Introduction

Learn about the S1 heart sound, listen to examples, take short lessons and compare to other heart sounds. For all medical professionals.

Our S1 heart sound lessons can be found in this first heart sounds module. In addition, our reference index is designed to provide quick access to first heart sounds, with audio tracks, listening guides and waveforms. Use this link for quick reference to heart and lung sounds.

What does an S1 Heart Sound mean?

The S1 heart sound is a low frequency sound, occurring at the beginning of systole. S1 can be best heard over the apex, using a stethoscope's bell or diaphragm. The first heart sound is caused by turbulence created when the mitral and tricuspid values close. S1 and S2 heart sounds are often described as lub - dub.

S1 Heart Sound Caused By

The S1 heart sound is caused by blood flow turbulence when mitral and tricuspid valves close at the start of systole.

Best Heart Position During Auscultation

Because S1 heart sounds occur when the mitral and tricuspid valve close, the best stethoscope chestpiece locations are at the tricuspid (left lower sternal border) and mitral (cardiac apex).

Listen to S1

Listening Tips

Audio Playback

Waveform

Compare To S1 Decreased Intensity

Authors and Reviewers

Authored by Dr. Jonathan Keroes, MD and David Lieberman, Developer, Virtual Cardiac Patient.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Barbara Erickson, PhD, RN, CCRN.
Last Update: 2/15/2022.