Stethoscope Recommendations!

Lev, MSN, RN, NP · Nov 10, 2015

Littman classic II seems to be a favorite. A nice upgrade is the Littman cardiology III (my personal favorite).

akulahawkRN, ADN, RN, EMT-P · Nov 10, 2015

For good "studenting" and early clinical use, the Littmann Classic II SE (or anything of similar quality) is an excellent choice. If you have the budget, the Littmann Cardiology III is a significant step-up. One big thing to remember is that your stethoscope can easily grow legs. I generally do not allow my stethoscope to leave my person. It's on me somewhere at all times or it's within sight. Probably the first thing you want to determine is just how much you're willing to part with, just in case the stethoscope gets lost or is stolen. Once you know that, you'll have a better handle your stethoscope budget.

Dranger · Nov 10, 2015

I have Littmans Master Cardiology III. It's really good since the Army destroyed my ears.

anon456, BSN, RN · Nov 10, 2015

Sprague stethoscopes with the double-tubing work great, too, and are inexpensive. At my work most nurses don't use their good stethoscopes unless they get a patient who really needs that. The disposable ones work, and this is the second choice. I paid about $25 for mine. I have less than ideal hearing and can hear about as well on this as more expensive models. At least until you get through nursing school, don't spend a huge amount on one. You will be sad when it gets lost or someone borrows it and does not return it.

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TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Nov 10, 2015

I wouldn't invest in an expensive stethoscope as a student. Save that for when you graduate and have someone buy you it as a gift.

Excellent, affordable stethoscopes for students and nurses include MaxiScope and the Littmann Lightweight. Both can be purchased for about $50 online.