Too Firm on Diaphram of Stethoscope

[Dlugi]

I have a Littman Master Cardiology series stethoscope. I was generous and let one of my fellow classmates use it since she left hers at home. Well she used alcohol on the diaphram (which we should do), however, she pushed really firmly on the diaphram on the stethoscope. I am freaked out because the stethoscope cost 180 dollars. I did take a B/P afterward and was able to ausculate the B/P correctly. However, I am really concerned she messed up the cardio aspects of this awesome stethoscope. Am I being too OCD or am I right for being concerned? Thoughts? Thank you in advance.

[eatmysoxRN, ASN, RN]

It's important to be gentle, but stethoscopes are built pretty sturdily. I doubt she damaged it, especially if you can still hear through it. I'd say test it, but if you are a nursing student, you may not have learned how to take full advantage of your awesome steth yet.

[cally527, RN]

Are you talking about the piece that has the Littmann logo on it? If so, that piece can be removed/replaced. If your classmate did actually damage it, all is not lost.

It is normal to be a little OCD when you have your first brand new stethoscope (especially when you spend money on an expensive one) You will soon get over that. Your poor stethoscope is not going to be new and perfect forever. At some point you will drop it, accidentally hit it against something hard, it will get puked on etc.

[rubato, ASN, RN]

My thoughts are this: If you are this worried about it (and I would be too), don't ever, and I mean ever, let anyone borrow it again. It's better to just be seen as a b**** than to run the risk, if it worries you this much.

[BostonFNP, APRN]

She did not damage it. You won't know the difference between sounds with a disposable scope vs a master cardio until you have had extensive experience and training but a diaphragm is a diaphragm the money is in the metal not the plastic.