[lynn85]

I have the stethescope I got for free from school, but I'm pretty sure it's exactly the same as those cheap disposable ones they leave in the patient's on contact precautions rooms. I can barely hear anything out of it! I was wondering if anyone could recommend a better one. I really don't want to spend more than $100 at this point (still have a year left, and broke), but I could do up to $140 if it makes a big difference. Any recommedations?

Thanks you.

[lynn85]

One last thing-- the stethoscope market is soo confusing. Should I get the cardiology one...the classic?? Help!!

[MeowTimesTwo]

Do you have a store near you where you can go try some out before buying? If so, I'd take some time and go and "test drive" every single one they have and see what works best for you. You may have to spend a lot on one or you might get off easier than you thought. It depends on your ears. That's what I ended up doing.

[mcknis]

Everybody is different and all ears are not the same. Go to a local scrub supply store to see if you can demo some of the scopes they have there. You may also be able to test drive some of your fellow sudents, nurses, or instructors scopes to see if they have one that works better for you.

[Brian F]

Lynn...
I can hear your frustration and if it is infact one of the disposable ones... your def right, they are Junk!! you can't hear anything but noise through them. I personalyl had sprauge rapport type which are better than those disposable ones but sometimes hard to hear from. they cost aBOUT $15-25 at the most. 2 Years ago (still in nursing school myself) I bought a Littmann Master Classic 2 and I LOVE it!!! It has a solid head that is heavy, but it enables you to just drop it down a patients shirt and not have to undo their blouse/shirt to hear. It also has soft ear pieces that conform to your own personal ears so it blocks out virtually all the extra noise. It is the best scope I own and is good for all sounds. It costs abour $75-80 but is an excellent scope. I work in a busy ED and hearing is crucial to the care I provide. I think you would be pleased with this scope, but that's my opinion let me know what you find that works for you...