stethoscopes

[RNshark]

Hi,

I just started an accelerated BSN program, and my lab instructor recommended that we go out and get a "GOOD" stethoscope, spending about $100. This caused a little debate among my classmates (some are CNAs). I was hoping someone might be able to suggest a either a good brand or model, and whether or not need to spend that much.

Thanks!!!

[LuvaBSNRN, BSN, RN]

Hey everyone! I'm looking into buying a new stethoscope now that I've finished my first semester of nursing school. I was hoping for some advice on a good scope although not more than say $75. I wasn't really happy with the quality of the one I used this semester. Appreciate any inuput.

Hello there-

I just finished my first semester of nursing school as well....yayyyayayayyy for us right??!!!! One of my study buddies recommended the Littman Master Classic II, which is the one I purchased and is great! Like someone else mentioned, if you put the earpiece in wrong you will not hear ANYTHING. I did that and I was going to send it back because I thought something was wrong with it. Eventually it dawned on me to turn it around and it works beautifully - the acoustics are great and crystal clear. However, based on the other opinions regarding the color I am a bit nervous because I purchased a black one, so I am going to have to think of some way to make it stand out and identifiable to me....good luck to you and feel free to ask me any other questions you may have. Take care, LMV

BTW regarding the price you can find them under $85 if you shop around - GOOGLE IT is the best way to go!!!!

[chenoaspirit, ASN, RN]

No, I did not put it on backwards, lol. But I did just purchase new earpieces and it made it ALOT better. I had the hard ones, I bought the soft ones and they fit the ear opening and seal better. So, the main problem with my Littmann was the earpieces. As far as color, I have a friend who bought a bright orange one, if anyone steals it she will definitely know.

[DanEMT, ASN, RN]

I haven't started my BSN track yet but I can tell you my Littman cardio III works perfectly in the back of an ambulance at 60 mph with sirens blarring. That is the reason I bought it, I needed a scope with the accustics that would allow me to do my job in those conditions (not to mention the screaming from the pt and crew). Get the Littman you can't go wrong.

[Victoriakem]

I just went to the local nursing supply store & when asked what kind did I want, I said, "I want a stethoscope under $20". Works for me!!:rotfl:

[Epona]

Hi all. As a new nusring student, which is better to buy.... a single head or a dual?? I am not sure how a dual works.

Thanks!

[athena55, BSN, RN]

hi, here is some information on dual-sided or dual head stethoscopes:

they enable simultaneous amplification of certain critical physiological sounds, by alternation between the two differently-shaped and differently-sized sound collecting areas. the "bell" side is not more or less suitable for pediatric use than the diaphragm side. the "diaphragm side" is generally more sensitive to respiratory sounds than the "bell" side. high fidelity, dual-sided stethoscopes have greater sensitivity to all frequencies on both sides, than single-sided ones

there are so many 'scopes out there. i would suggest you either ask someone a wee bit more experienced than you or head over to a medical supply store and ask if you can check them out.

good luck with your schooling!

athena

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[S.T.A.C.E.Y, LPN]

If you buy a cheap single head stethoscope, the one diaphragm will likely function just solely as one, however, if you buy a more expensive single-head stethoscope it can/may function as both.

From the Littman Website, about their single head stethoscopes:

Tunable technology provides convenience, versatility and enhanced acoustics. The dual frequency diaphragm combines both bell (low-frequency) and diaphragm (high frequency) into a single side of the chestpiece. You control bell and diaphragm modes by pressure on the chestpiece rather than by turning it over.

If you plan to buy a cheapie, might as well get dual-heads. If you get a more expensive one, then its personal preference.

[CityKat, BSN, RN]

I have both. I have a dual and a single and honestly, I use the single more than the double. It's easier to go from the bell to diaphragm with a simple amount of pressure or release of pressure. Both of mine are littman and I paid about $50 for each.

[rags]

I bought Littmann Cardiology III on Ebay and love it. I now work in PED's and am glad to have the dual sided bell diaphragm style. Think of your stethoscope as a lasting investment. You WILL use it after nursing school, unlike some of those pricey books we needed to buy.

[atwtrn]

I also have a Cardiology III. I got it for Christmas and haven't had a chance to use it. But I'm hoping it will work well.

[MARIAN202]

Thanks For All The Tips