Stethoscope for cardiac surgery ICU nurse?

[LCRN16]

I got the littmann classic SE in nursing school about 4 years ago and it has served me well but I am looking to upgrade after working a couple months on a cardiothoracic surgery ICU. Does anyone have any suggestions? I've been looking at the cardiology IV and the master cardiology both of which seem to have great reviews but I'm curious to hear from other nurses who own one of these whether they feel they are worth the money? Is this an appropriate purchase for an ICU nurse or is it overkill? I would appreciate any advice!

[Ruby Vee, BSN]

Littman makes a good product and you can hardly go wrong. I still have the Littman classic that was given to me in 1982 and it still works great. I do hear slightly more with my master cardiology, and I don't regret purchasing it. If you have the disposable income, it may be worth the upgrade. If you're struggling with bills, etc. not so much.

If you upgrade, consider getting your name engraved and/or a bright color. Littman scopes have a tendency to grow legs and walk away if you lend them to MDs, especially the nicer ones.

[datalore]

Agreed with Ruby Vee. I have a master cardiology and I love how well I can hear. Any Littmann would serve you well. In terms of not having it stolen -- I took the diaphragm off, wrote my full name in sharpie on the inside (in mirror image!) and reapplied it. So far, still not stolen!