How to Choose a Good Stethoscope

Sha-Sha RN · Jun 29, 2013

I choose my stethoscopes based on how well I can hear what I need to hear, then color. At first I was not looking at brand and I went with a ADC scope because I heard better that the Littman I was comparing it to. However, with my next scope (after the acoustics on that ADC died) I went a Littman Master Classic II in Purple - again based on sound and a color that most people would not have - so I know if someone walked off with mine. That Littman lasted about 7 years then the tubing started to crack and open. Last year I got a Littman Cardiology II as a birthday gift when I got hired for the CCU (and when my Master Classic was on its last leg). I like the sound and my plum color. This time I had my name engraved on the stethoscope head (theft protection).

amygarside · Jul 2, 2013

I prefer the disposable stethoscopes. I can hear everything with those, not so much with pricier name brands. It's also lightweight so I don't feel like i have a yoke on. And finally, should I lose it or it finds it's way to a new home, it's cheap and easily replaced without setting me back a wad of cash.

this works for me too. practicality

SwimNurseRun · Jul 3, 2013

I started off with the Littman lightweight an had trouble hearing heart murmurs or diminished lungs. I shopped around online to find a good deal on the Littman Master Classic II and I LOVE IT!! I never have a problem or question with what type of lung/heart/bowel sounds I hear and it's not as expensive as a cardiology stethoscope. And of course, picking your favorite color is key. :) I also engraved my initials on it with my own engraver. Be sure to have your name on it!!

cardinaldogs · Jul 4, 2013

I had a generic one when I started nursing school then moved up to a Littman Classic in red as I am a St. Louis Cardinal fan. When I became a neonatal/Peds nurse I added a neonatal scope and bought a pediatric head so I could interchange the adult size and Peds one. My hearing deteriorated so I could no longer discern heart and breath sounds on neonates so I was fitted with behind the ear hearing aids. I could no longer use my stethoscopes and purchased an electronic one eith headphones which was great within a year I was disabled so really didn't get to use it that long.

amygarside · Jul 4, 2013

I had a generic one when I started nursing school then moved up to a Littman Classic in red as I am a St. Louis Cardinal fan. When I became a neonatal/Peds nurse I added a neonatal scope and bought a pediatric head so I could interchange the adult size and Peds one. My hearing deteriorated so I could no longer discern heart and breath sounds on neonates so I was fitted with behind the ear hearing aids. I could no longer use my stethoscopes and purchased an electronic one eith headphones which was great within a year I was disabled so really didn't get to use it that long.

thanks for sharing cardinaldogs :)

royhanosn · Jul 7, 2013

it works. Metal head. You DONT lose a stethescope. But get one that is comfortable to the ears, good point. Colour, this is not a car. Littman has been around for years, good choice. Now lets get back to work.

payitforward · Jul 8, 2013

Can Never go wrong a with Littman. I've had the same Littman for over 20 years. The tubing hasn't cracked over the years, and the accoustics are great. All I've done is change the ear pieces and diaphram. I always keep it in my pocket,or around my neck. Also, when I do change the diaphram, I use a piece of x-ray paper! It lasts longer,and I get much better sound.

amygarside · Jul 9, 2013

i'll try that x-ray paper technique! hehe thanks!

thankful77 · Jul 18, 2013

Can't wait to get one for nursing school! :)

royhanosn · Jul 18, 2013

you NEVER lose or loan your steth out! as they say now day...ever (with empathsis)

thats why its around your neck. Makes you look official lol, even at McDonalds.