I am starting nursing school this fall and was pondering over what type of stethoscope to get for clinicals and labs. I know some people say that it shouldn't matter, brands are just brands, but I don't feel that way. I'm going to be honest with everyone. I want a Littmann, and I am fully prepared to buy one, but I have narrowed it down to two stethoscopes recommended for new nurses/ student nurses, the Littmann Classic SE II and the Littmann Lightweight SE II. Now, of course, I hear all of the amazing reports about the master cardiology and the amazing Cardiology III, not to mention the new Electronic models. In any case, I don't feel I need a stethoscope until after I have the letters RN behind my name.
So for now I am stuck between the Classic and the Lightweight. I have heard many say the Lightweight was specifically "designed" for nursing professionals and is good for general use etc... I have also researched the two and the classics popularity among generally practicing nurses and nursing students seems to outweigh the lightweight. On the other hand I have also that the lightweight although having the anti-chill rim and anatomically compatible bell shape is not very good when it comes to hearing anything other than BP and basic heart sounds.
The Littmann website says that the lightweight is a good general stethoscope with LIMITED physical assessment abilities. I don't like that they say that their own product is "limited", maybe they could have worded that better. (Lolz!) One of my classmates swears that the lightweight is reccommended for nursing students, but I really like the features of both the lightweight and the classic, although I am leaning more towards the classic after reading the whole "llimited" thing. What is you guys, as practicing nurses, fellow nursing students, CNAs etc.... Thanks so much for your help! This is basically a Classic vs. Lightweight thing for me, but I'm open to any other suggestions.
Specializes in Nursing Education, CVICU, Float Pool.
Hey guys! I actually did make a decision . I got the MDF MD one Stethoscope. It's kind if like the "knock off" brand of littman but the stethoscope is of super good quality! I love it i got the MD One model which Morris the littman classic II I wanted! MDF is cheaper and very sturdy. I got the all black one and got a lifetime warranty on earbud replacement! I said it would save the expensive littman for a graduation present to myself! Hope this helps!
Specializes in Nursing Education, CVICU, Float Pool.
Personally I do like the light weight one better because of both the weight and I feel like it has better sound quality also.
With the MDF I got is a slightly heavier model, but most definitely manageable, but there was an option to get the same scope in a lighter medal however. After starting the program and now completing my 3rd of 5 semesters as if today!!!!!!! I have used and gotten reports on student who have bother the littman classic II and the littman lightweight, by far I like the classic II better as did most of my classmates!
ahnmuhree
16 Posts
Hi PatMac10,SN-
Did you ever make the decision? I'm currently in the same situation...?