HELP!! Cardio III or Classic II SE??

[tnt714]

Hi everyone! I was hoping someone could send me in the right direction. I am looking to buy a new stethoscope for nursing school and I have been reading some of the stuff everyone has posted and it seems that Littmann is the brand I should go with, but which type??? A few people said not to go too crazy when your still in school, but I would rather buy a good one that will last me throughout school and even in my career. Besides, I don't want to not do well in clinical because I got a "decent" stethoscope and I can't hear very well... I don't care too much about the price (however I would like to keep it below $200) but I would really like something that works well, is not too heavy, and that I can hear well with. I should also mention I am one of those people who gets distracted easily by background noise (especially if I am new at something and am nervous to begin with). It seems that the cardio III and the classic II SE are the most commonly used.. Any suggestions?? Thanks!! :)

[Sugar-Phosphate]

I am just starting school this fall, and have bought the Cardiology III. I, like yo, wanted something that would serve me out of school as well. I bought mine from stethoscope.ca. I should be getting it soon, however due to the canada post strike, it has be delayed a little bit. After reading many reviews, I chose to go with Cardiology III. I cannot comment on its acuity, nor its effectiveness as I have no experience and I don't have it yet, but I am happy with my decision thus far.

I have worked with 3M products for many years, in the laboratory, and LOVE their products. So a stethoscope by them, was so contest to choose from. Did you decide on one?

[ChrisChangCNA]

classic se 2

[ChrisCNA]

cardiology III if you can afford it

[Sugar-Phosphate]

So, I just got my cardiology III today, and wow, is it loud. I like the sealing around my ears, and the way I can hear things very well. On the down side, as a student, perhaps I can hear too much? I am sure once in school this fall I will learn everything I need. Also it is VERY loud as you press on something or move the tubing.

So far though, once I have proper training, I am sure I will have no regrets. At this moments I have no regrets.

[Thomas RN]

For a general pupose all around excellent stethoscope I like the the Littman Masters Classic II. It is about $100 tops and lasts forever and I have used mine both in critical care and outpatient settings. If you are a cardiac nurse that does only cardiac stuff and need to be diagnosing heart tones etc the Littman Masters Cardiology is the one for about $175 but take a look at the Prestige Clinical cardiology (#7424) forr about $70 excellent piece of equipment.