Is learning on a cheap stethoscope better?

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I purchased a Littmann Classic II se for myself once I got accepted and was given a checklist of things that we need. A nurse friend of mine, after finding out that I bought a fancier model, said that its recommended for me to "learn to listen" on a cheap stethoscope first, and save the good one for after I graduate. That way my ears will be trained to hear things better and then when I do use a good model, boom I'll hear everything. This makes sense I suppose but can anyone else vouch for it? I want you all to give your opinion. At one time I was a classically trained professional musician who went through quite a bit of ear training, so I already tend to notice things that other people don't (in music). Not sure if that would be a good or bad thing when I'm learning to hear different sounds. Should I go ahead and buy a little $20 student scope? The way that my friend said this almost implied that I would be at a disadvantage by starting off on a good stethoscope. Like my ears won't turn out to be as sensitive as they could be. Any validity to this?

Whatever you put your name on it. I find misplaced stethoscopes all the time, 3 this week alone (in 3/12's). Always easier if your name is on it. Can just put a sticky note on your locker that it's at the nurses station. (and no my name isn't on mine. Do as I say not as I do)

My vote, don't go cheap ($50-100 will get you a decent one). You will have plenty of opportunity to try a POS in the ISO rooms. I also don't think there is any need for a $300 cardiology.

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I got it engraved and just picked it up last Friday. My full name is on the bell--pretty hard to ignore

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Specializes in Renal, Diabetic.

I had a rainbow Littman Classic II when I was working as an MA before I got into nursing school. Once I got admitted, my dad was so proud, he went and got me a Cardiac III. My view was, "I'm upgrading in the medical field, I might as well upgrade my stethoscope." (Not knocking the profession as an MA, just noting that my responsibilities and scope are upgrading.) I do use it at work as I'm still an MA, and I absolutely love it. I really did love my classic as well, so I think you should do fine with the classic :)

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Specializes in NICU, Trauma, Oncology.

The thing about engraving is you can't see it unless you're looking for it - with a magnifying glass. The best I've seen is some nurses using decorative duct tape on the Y part and sharpie.

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The thing about engraving is you can't see it unless you're looking for it - with a magnifying glass. The best I've seen is some nurses using decorative duct tape on the Y part and sharpie.

Ive also seen stethoscope beaded charms. It's like a steth "necklace" that attaches onto both ear pieces. They are adorable and very unique. I've seen the clip on charms that snap right onto the tubing but it's pretty expensive for one little charm ($10+ each). The colorful tape is a good idea. I could make a creative pattern with it so it's easy to ID. Could also write "FOR ISOLATION USE ONLY" in Sharpie...

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Specializes in NICU, Trauma, Oncology.
Ive also seen stethoscope beaded charms. It's like a steth "necklace" that attaches onto both ear pieces. They are adorable and very unique. I've seen the clip on charms that snap right onto the tubing but it's pretty expensive for one little charm ($10+ each). The colorful tape is a good idea. I could make a creative pattern with it so it's easy to ID. Could also write "FOR ISOLATION USE ONLY" in Sharpie...

Charms and covers and whatever's are great. Just be sure to ask your instructor and the unit. Some hospitals/units this is an infection control issues others it's not. Can't go wrong with sharpie though.

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