Master Cardiology stethoscope?

[candacern59217]

Hi everyone. New account because I changed email addresses so I couldn't log on. I've been a member for awhile but I'm not very active on here.

I usually use a Litmann Master Classic II stethoscope (the kind that you don't have to turn around the bell and diaphragm). I just got a new position on a Med/Surg unit but they have more intensive cardiology patients there. They have a separate specialized cardiology unit for the most intense cases, but I'm going to get more specific cardio patients than I've ever had. Will get ACLS trained, I've only done basic telemetry but I'll have more specialized telemetry training etc.

I'm wondering if it's worth it to get a Master Cardiology (Litmann) stethoscope, or if I'll be able to hear basically the same as the Master Classic II. If there really is a difference then it'll probably be worth it. But if not then shelling out $200 for no better hearing doesn't seem like a wise purchase.

I've been a nurse for 3 years if that matters.

[akulahawkRN, ADN, RN, EMT-P]

I have a Cardiology III stethoscope that has been at my side for about 15 years now. It's still going good. You apparently have a Master Cardiology and that's quite a decent steth. I would say that you should look at your usual population and if you're going to have mostly adult patients, you'll probably never need anything other than what you're used to.

What is it that I like about my stethoscope? Simple. The bell turns and becomes a pediatric cardiology steth. Then again I'm an ER Nurse and I'm also a Paramedic and I've used that steth in both arenas, and it has performed admirably so my steth is certainly something that meets my needs. For me the only major upgrade I'd do would be to an electronic stethoscope and I just don't see that happening in the near future.

So... my simple advice is that if you're comfortable with your current stethoscope and you'll be working with primarily adults, stick with your current steth.

[Julius Seizure]

I wouldnt spend that money to upgrade. You aren't going to hear anything that will change what you do in your job. I work in a cardiac ICU.....we use regular standard stethoscopes and everybody does just fine, including the ICU docs. The cardiologist MIGHT have a better stethoscope but thats about it. If you get one, it will probably end up walking off, never to be seen again.

[applesxoranges, BSN, RN]

Nope. My sister has my old Classic II Littmann and the cardiologist always steals her stethoscope even though the bell is broken (it has a tunable diaphragm though). If your stethoscope isn't broken, I wouldn't worry about replacing it.