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Hi everyone! I just got hired for NICU position and I am so excited! I graduate in 3 weeks and will be starting this summer. I need to buy an infant stethoscope and was wondering what one everyone is using? what is the best one?
Before you go and purchase a new stethoscope, be sure your unit will allow you to use one. My unit has individual stethoscopes for each baby at the bedside that stays with the baby until discharge (same with thermometers). Yes, we do have to share them with the other nurses/docs/RTs, but it's safer for the baby to not share them with other babies.
In every NICU I have worked in, each baby had their own stethoscope at the bedside for using on them only. This is for infection control purposes. I agree with the previous poster that you check with your manager before spending money on a personal stethoscope.
If you do purchase a stethoscope, the Littmann Neonatal stethoscope is fantastic. I have used them before and they are terrific for hearing heart murmurs.
Good luck and congratulations on your new position!!
The 3/4 inch bell is the one to use, not the one inch one. There are lots of places to buy form so check prices out can be as much as $30 more at some places.