3M Littmann Cardiology III Stethoscope

Published

I've just begun my clinical at school and I have a Littmann lightweight Ii S.E. stethoscope. I find that while it's fine for hearing heartbeats, I have difficulties hearing bowel sounds unless someone has just that second finished eating and I can't hear lung sounds whatsoever. In addition to that, I find the earpiece really irritates my ear, especially the right side. Also, I do have some hearing issues. It's kind of an issue because my clinical professor is threatening to fail me for not being able to hear lung sounds.

I've heard that 3M Littmann Cardiology III Stethoscope was a great quality stethoscope but because of the price, I was hoping to get some feedback from nurses who've used it or are currently using it.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

moved for best response....I this the Cardiology III is the best stethoscope.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Is it good for just heart and lung sounds? Can I use it for bowel sounds as well.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I love my Cardiology III! Works well for me on everything!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I love mine! I have the Cardiology III and it's a great stethoscope, you won't regret spending the money.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Med Surg.

After reading your post, I really wonder if your issue is with the stethoscope. If you don't know how to or cannot operate a car, a Ferrari is not going to serve you any better than a Toyota Corolla, even though a Ferrari is much nicer, more expensive car.

Every class has at least one member whose grandmother bought them a Cardiology III, ask to borrow it before they lose it during clinical and see if it works for you.

You can also go to a supply store and ask to see one before you buy it (bring alcohol wipes and a friend with bowel sounds).

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in NICU.

I love my cardiology III. Do not regret spending the extra money. I have to be careful of others using it all the time. It is bright red with my name laser engraved on it.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

No I definitely need more practice and am looking into getting a tutor to give me more individual attention but I do think the stethoscope I have is just making it worse.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Emergency.

I *love* my Cardiology III. I went from a Littman II classic to the Cardiology and everything I listen to is so crystal clear.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Ambulatory Surgery, Ophthalmology, Tele.

I love my Cardiology III stethoscope. I bought one when I got my first job on a tele floor. I could hear EVERYTHING! A good stethoscope does make a difference. As others have suggested see if you can borrow one at the hospital and check it out for yourself. I would also recommend engraving your name on it when you order it. Stethoscopes do grow legs and walk away sometimes. Just keep it with you at all times and never set it down. I carried mine in my cargo pocket of my scrubs.

Also hide it when the docs are around, some seem to like to borrow your stethoscope if they forget theirs. ;)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Lightweight II SE sucks IMO. Those are the kind my school gave us, and I bought a Littmann classic II which I love. I haven't tried cardiology ones.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion