Littmann Floating Diaphragm Really Work?

[j_tay1981]

I know Littmann is a popular brand, but does the floating diaphragm work well in practice? Is there really a difference in the frequencies that you hear with the changing pressure? Do you find it easy to change pressure on a patient and still get accurate sounds? When pressing firmly, does it cause the patient discomfort? As a student nurse, should I seek out a tunable diaphragm or should I start with a standard diaphragm/bell setup?

Sorry for the over-loaded questions, but I want to start my nursing clinicals with a solid foundation of auscultation.

Thanks!

[j_tay1981]

No love

[rghbsn, BSN, RN]

I have the master cardiology, have used it since nursing school and wouldn't change it. It works very well...in any setting I've used it in; clinicals, peds, in the field, in an ambulance, in the ICU, in the ED.

[ShantheRN, BSN, RN]

I have a Littman with a tunable diaphragm. It takes some getting used to, but it's not hard. It doesn't cause discomfort for the patient. Initially I thought it was, but then I used it on myself and it was fine. If you get the standard bell combo, you don't have to worry about whether you're applying enough pressure. On the flip side, you don't have to worry about your scope ever being turned on the wrong side.

I think it's more important to make sure you have the right earpieces - it can make a world of difference in what you hear!

[rghbsn, BSN, RN]

Earpieces do matter...if you buy one new it comes with several sets, all of different durometer, so you can find what is most comfortable and effective for you.