Another question for you NICU nurses

Specialties NICU

Published

I was wondering what you guys do about stethoscopes in NICU. I am just starting as a new grad and thinking I probably need to look into buying one. Does your unit have a stethescope designated for each baby or do you use your own when doing assessments?

I REALLY DO NOT want to have to shell out the money for one unless absolutely necessary....go those student loans to pay back, you know!!:p

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Specializes in NICU, Infection Control.

We use our own. There are neonatal stethoscopes for

Do not get a Sprague type. Again my opinion, but I don't like stuff around my neck, esp. as heavy as that stethoscope is. Do invest in some sort of scope cover--if you hang it around your neck, the cover will prevent skin oil from getting into the plastic and permanently bending it.

Good Luck! Be sure and get a Merenstein and Gardner!

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Already bought it! Got it in the mail yesterday.

Heather

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Specializes in NICU, Infection Control.

Now all you need is a highlighter in your favorite color! :D

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PURPLE PURPLE PURPLE!

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I am going to be starting in the NICU (new grad) in August. In our NICU each baby has their own stethescope. I understand that this is to cut down on infectons etc. However, these stethescopes are so cheap and hurt my ears (hard plastic) I miss my Littmann that sits at home. And it is purple too!!!

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Specializes in NICU, Infection Control.

I did Infection Control for over 7 years. I have NEVER, EVER seen a documented case of an infection passed from one pt to another via a stethescope. Hands, probably, NEVER a stethescope.

It can be cleaned w/whatever topical disinfectant they use, the chestpiece can be cleaned with an alcohol swab between pts easily.

It makes me absolutely crazy when nurses get so obsessed with inanimate objects--and forget what's REALLY important. HANDWASHING.

Invasive devices are another story.

If they want to have each baby to have their own scope, they could invest

Sorry--didn't mean to go off on this-- :(

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I am with you prmenrs. I wish I could use my Littmann so bad. I worry about the ear wax and gunk I have to feverishly clean off of the stethescope before I can assess the babies. It is so gross!!!:imbar Everyone uses that stethescope, the docs, nps other nurses, respiratory etc. I don't want to think about it. :imbar

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....when I think about it, if I brought a expensive stethescope to work it would probably mysteriously walk away.

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Specializes in NICU, PICU,IVT,PedM/S.

In our NICU each baby has its own. If your worried about other peoples ear gunk wipe it with an alcohol swab before you use it!

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Well...that is exactly what I do but it is still gross.

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Specializes in NICU.

Our babies have their own stethoscopes, but they grow legs and disappear-and when you need one to go to a delivery, an extra is hard to find. I finally bought my own Littman, clean it with disinfectant or alcohol, and keep it with me. I'd love to search doctor's offices and cars for all our missing stethoscopes! We do check L&D, postpartum and peds occasionally.

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