How do I evaluate a sthethoscope?

nurse_nightingmale · Apr 29, 2013

I thought I would chime in here because I have an interesting story (to me anyways) about my stethoscope. I am currently have about 4 months left in a BSN program through Tx A&M. In the beginning I bought a scope, I think I may have spent $70-$80, and was pretty proud of it cause I assumed it worked really well. I mean I could hear lung sounds real well, as well as great heart sounds. However, during my Fundamental clinical, I was pulled aside by a Nurse Practitioner whom decided to teach me how to do a full physical assessment. I was excited and nervous at the same time. As we were listening to heart sounds, he kept pointing out things I was not hearing. He must of seen the perplexed look on my face because after wiping off his ear pieces with alcohol, he allowed me to listen with his scope. I was amazed at the difference and ease I could hear everything. He took a look at my scope and called it trash. He had the Littmann Cardiology Original. I started looking around and found the Littman Cardiology 3 which was only $120 on Amazon. It still sometimes amazes me in the difference during auscultation. I have had seasoned Nurses ask to see my scope and even a few that have their own Cardiology and swear by them. I know a lot of people say that it's not something to spend the money on and there is no reason to spend hundreds of dollars. However, your tools of the trade can betray you so this is something I would not want to skimp on. Just my opinion.

Mandy0728 · Apr 29, 2013

Yup, I've heard the Cardiology 3 & the Master cardiology both from Littmann are the best!

FDW630 · Apr 29, 2013

Of course the pricier scopes are clearer, but if you are on a budget and a student, the classic II is fine. You miss finer diagnostic details, but you hear more than enough for school and assessments. I'd save the money now and splurge as a graduation gift later, unless you won't feel the extra $100+ out of pocket. :)

tinks599 · Apr 29, 2013

I think everyone here has a great point. My husband pointed out that it might be cheaper to buy a Cardiology scope because I am planning on going into FNP school and will likely need good acoustics in family practice...so I would save by having to buy a second scope down the road if I invested in the one I would use for years to come. I was looking at a scope that was $109. I got the Master Cardiology for $167. I am having it shipped to my BIL because he owns a business that can engrave it for me, so I saved there. I haven't gotten it yet but I am excited about it. Thank you all for your input. I feel comfortable that this was one of those places where the additional expense was worthwhile. It was a tough decision.

NorCalKid · Apr 30, 2013

I got a Littman MCII($109). I like the fact that I can hear both sounds with out having to stop and turn it around. That being said if price was no object I would go with the cardiology. My school was sent a bunch of samples we could try out before ordering. I could tell the difference but bought what I could afford.

brewski09 · May 2, 2013

I have the littman classic 2 se and love it. You can buy online for $85 or less with shipping (try amazon). I do think the cardiology stethoscopes are nice, but don't find it necessary unless you are going to be on a cardiology unit. I have used one before (thanks to an MD I worked with). For the record, I am a recent grad on a progressive care unit. If you get a cardiology stethoscope at some point in the future for work, you have a pretty good backup if it ever breaks or "walks off" on you.