Stethoscope Problems - The Pull Down?

[Kristen8]

Hello Everyone... I have a weird problem, and I've looked around for a similar thread, but I've had no luck. Every time I have a nursing related question I end up here... So I figured I'd make an account and ask.

We've been doing vitals in my class this week. Now, I know how to use a stethoscope and I can take a blood pressure and so on. But I seem to have some sort of problem with my ears. If I don't actually tug the stethoscope (pull it downward) while I am using it... I can barely hear anything... even taps on the diaphragm, but I can feel the vibration so I know it's the right side and everything. The instant I pull down, I can hear everything loud and clear. To have a free hand to do that with while you're taking a BP is kind of awkward... Unless you set the pump down which apparently is a no go... My instructor looked at me like I was insane when I told her the problem. At first I thought it was just my scope which is already angled (prestige medical clinical I), but I used the teaching scopes at school today and had the same problem even though they aren't angled. I was just wondering if anyone had a similar problem and/or suggestions... I feel like an idiot, but really no matter how much I adjust or push or press... I don't get a quality sound unless I pull down. Everyone else seems to just be able to put them in their ears and go .ugh.

Thanks!!

[Mini-Murse]

Hello Everyone... I have a weird problem, and I've looked around for a similar thread, but I've had no luck. Every time I have a nursing related question I end up here... So I figured I'd make an account and ask.

We've been doing vitals in my class this week. Now, I know how to use a stethoscope and I can take a blood pressure and so on. But I seem to have some sort of problem with my ears. If I don't actually tug the stethoscope (pull it downward) while I am using it... I can barely hear anything... even taps on the diaphragm, but I can feel the vibration so I know it's the right side and everything. The instant I pull down, I can hear everything loud and clear. To have a free hand to do that with while you're taking a BP is kind of awkward... Unless you set the pump down which apparently is a no go... My instructor looked at me like I was insane when I told her the problem. At first I thought it was just my scope which is already angled (prestige medical clinical I), but I used the teaching scopes at school today and had the same problem even though they aren't angled. I was just wondering if anyone had a similar problem and/or suggestions... I feel like an idiot, but really no matter how much I adjust or push or press... I don't get a quality sound unless I pull down. Everyone else seems to just be able to put them in their ears and go .ugh.

Thanks!!

Are you using hard or soft ears? I've read of other people having problems with the soft ears squinching shut in their ears.

[LyssaZo]

I have a similar problem regarding my stethoscope, but not exactly the same. I have a Prestige Medical Clinical Classic and if I don't hold it steady the ear pieces twist and fall and I can't hear a thing. It seems like an issue with the weight of the scope and ill-fitting ear pieces. Mine seems too heavy, perhaps yours is too light. And I have tried every conceivable ear piece on mine: small soft, hard, gel, etc., nothing works. I certainly don't want to have to hold it in while I use it, as I'm sure you don't want to have to pull it down...I'm interested to see any feedback from this thread.