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Have you ever felt naked without a reliable stethoscope hanging around your neck? You are not alone.
Stethoscopes serve as a nurses’ guide when conducting physical assessments. Without a reliable stethoscope, making thorough and accurate assessments on your patients would be impossible. We’ve put together this awesome guide in finding the best stethoscope for nurses.
Why Should You Invest On Good Stethoscopes?
Most hospitals require nurses to have their own stethoscopes. It’s one of the most frequently used medical devices in the hospital, so it’s best if you invest in something that lasts.
Here are the benefits of investing in good stethoscopes:
- Convenience
Stethoscope serves as the extension of your senses when doing assessments. It’s convenient to have a quality stethoscope around, especially when you observe that there is something wrong with your patient that needs immediate assessment.
- Quality
Why buy a cheap stethoscope if you can’t rely on it during actual emergencies? A quality stethoscope can last a lifetime so it’s definitely worth the price. Plus, you might not be able to do proper auscultation if your stethoscope can’t give you decent sound quality.
- Comfort
Have you ever used a low-quality stethoscope that is not yours? I bet it hurts your ears! By getting your own quality stethoscope, you can ensure that it fits you well. Low-quality stethoscopes usually have defects that may cause discomforts in the long run.
Types of Stethoscopes for Nurses
To help you choose the best stethoscope for you, take a look at the following types of stethoscopes:
1. By Head Type
- Single Head Stethoscope
Single head stethoscopes are known for their clear and wide frequency sound output. It allows the listener to focus on high or low-frequency sounds. It is commonly recommended for general usages like taking vital signs and lung auscultation. It is also preferred for basic heart sound assessments.
- Dual-Head Stethoscope
A dual-head stethoscope is more versatile to use than a single head stethoscope. It is composed of two heads – the diaphragm and the bell. The diaphragm is the flat part of the head that works great for high-frequency sounds while the bell is the cup-like part of the head that works great for low-frequency sounds.
- Triple-Head Stethoscope
The triple-head stethoscope is designed to accurately hear and assess critical heart sounds. It is expensive and relatively heavy so it is just commonly used for critical cardiac assessments.
2. By Usage
- Sprague Rappaport Stethoscope
A Sprague Rappaport stethoscope has separate chest piece tubes for each earpiece. These tubes are held together by a metal clip and connected separately to the headpiece. The double-barrel chest piece of this stethoscope is made to produce better sound quality.
- Cardiology Stethoscope
Cardiology stethoscopes are designed for cardiac assessments. This type of stethoscope has superb sound quality so distinguishing different heart sounds will be easy. It is available in a single-head or a double-head chest piece.
The chest piece tubes are usually bi-lumen but it is made into a single tube design so there will be no noise created from two tubes rubbing together.
- Pediatric Stethoscope
A pediatric stethoscope is similar to classic stethoscopes except for one feature – the headpiece is smaller than standard stethoscopes. The bell part of the head measures one inch in diameter and the diaphragm is specially contoured for pediatric bodies.
- Infant Stethoscope
Just like the pediatric stethoscope, the infant stethoscope has a small headpiece as well. The bell part of the headpiece is ¾ inch in diameter. The headpiece is lightweight and contoured for ease of use on newborns and babies.
3. Special Types
- Hearing-Impaired Stethoscope
Stethoscopes for hearing-impaired individuals are now available. This kind of stethoscope is capable of amplifying sounds without being affected by outside noise. It can be attached to an external PDA, earphones, or tape recorder.
- Electronic Stethoscope
Electronic stethoscopes became popular because of its noise reduction feature. It can also amplify sounds well. It is considered impractical for emergency purposes as it needs to be set and recharged for accurate sound output.
Examining the Stethoscope – What You Should Look For
In examining a stethoscope, you must ensure that the parts are made from high-quality materials. Here’s a guide for this:
- Ear Piece
The earpiece of a stethoscope should feel soft and fit perfectly into the ear canal. It should also be properly angled to ensure crisp sound playback.
- Chest Piece/Head
The chest piece should be made from stainless steel. Stainless steel is a good conductor of sound and highly durable so air leak will be prevented. Chest pieces made from aluminum and zinc alloy are also great but stainless steel tops them for the sound quality amplified.
- Tube
The tube is responsible for sound transmission and the elimination of external noises. It should be made from thick material like polyvinyl chloride. It should be crack-resistant and can be conveniently folded without kinking or breaking.
- Diaphragm
The diaphragm should be made from a high-quality flexible material like resin and PE compound film. It should be air-sealed to ensure that the amplified sound is clear. If possible, having a non-chill rim within the diaphragm will be helpful especially for pediatric patients.
Top 10 Best Stethoscopes for Nurses
Here’s a list of the top ten best stethoscopes for nurses as recommended by our staff and online reviews.
1. 3M Littmann Classic III Stethoscope
3M Littmann Classic III Stethoscope has tunable diaphragms which makes it a good choice for both pediatric and adult patients. It features a two-sided chest piece, too.
Compared with most stethoscopes, this one has a more durable tubing. It can resist skin oils and alcohol which means it’s less likely to wear off easily. It’s not prone to picking up stains as well.
Pros:
- Fantastic sound quality
- Resists skin oil and alcohol
- Comfortable in the ears
Cons:
- Feels heavy
- Length is a bit short
2. 3M Littmann Lightweight II S.E. Stethoscope
The 3M Littmann Lightweight II S.E. Stethoscope also features a tunable diaphragm that is capable of capturing both low and high-frequency sounds. It has a teardrop shape, making it easy to fit under your blood pressure cuff.
Its earpieces, on the other hand, are angled to ensure a proper fit into the ear canal. This ensures that you get to hear sounds as accurately as possible.
Another impressive thing about this stethoscope is that it has a non-chill rim. It’s great for keeping patients comfortable during assessments.
Pros:
- Convenient diaphragm shape
- Earbuds are angled
- Easy to clean
- Not bulky
Cons:
- May not be the best for listening to cardiac sounds
- Tube tends to be a bit flimsy
- Not long enough
3. Ever Ready First Aid Dual Head Stethoscope
Ever Ready’s dual head stethoscope is ideal for both medical and general use. Available in fun colors and a casual appearance to boot, those looking to use it for cosplay and for other entertainment purposes will find it just the right equipment. For medical or home use, it delivers reliable results, which is a little surprising considering its low cost. Plus, the dual lumen design removes any auditory disruptions, a common issue in two-tube stethoscopes.
Pros:
- Adjustable ear tubes
- Has extra earpieces
Cons:
- Ear pieces are plastic, which can be tough on the ears
4. 3M Littmann Master Cardiology Stethoscope
If you work in a unit that specifically manages patients with heart problems, this 3M Littmann Master Cardiology Stethoscope is definitely something you should buy. It has a tunable diaphragm that can let you hear a variety of frequencies just by adjusting the pressure on its chest piece. You won’t have to turn it over or reposition it.
This stethoscope isn’t made with rubber latex which is good news for those who have sensitive skin. It doesn’t contain phthlate plasticizers, too.
Pros:
- Sounds are clear
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Has a tunable diaphragm
- Doesn’t contain phthlate plasticizers
Cons:
- Expensive
5. ERKA Finesse 2 Stethoscope
If you are looking for a stethoscope that’s reasonably priced and has excellent quality, go with ERKA Finesse 2 Stethoscope. It features a switchable chest piece which makes it great for infants, children, and adult patients. It has a unique design to ensure great resonance and sound transmission.
The stethoscope has dual-channel tubing and ergonomic ear tips to make sure that no background noises can distract you. It comes in five colors to match your uniform.
Apart from the great design, you’ll also love the case it comes with. It can help keep your stethoscope in great shape when not in use.
Pros:
- Has a switchable chest piece
- Includes a carrying case
- Has ergonomic ear tips
- Washable
- Dermatologically safe
Cons:
- None that we found
6. ADC 619ST Adscope Lite 619 Ultra Lightweight Clinician Stethoscope with Tunable AFD Technology
This lightweight stethoscope from ADC has remarkable acoustics thanks to its high-frequency transmission and sensitive diaphragm for better amplification, which, of course, entails accurate and reliable results. The Adsoft Plus snap-on silicone eartips also make it comfortable for longer use. In addition to providing an extra pair of Adsoft Plus eartips, you also get a free scope ID tag. Best of all, there’s a lifetime warranty included.
Pros:
- Adsoft Plus eartips for utmost comfort
- Lifetime warranty entails free repair and free parts forever
Cons:
- Feels a little flimsy
7. 3M Littmann 6163 Cardiology IV Stethoscope
3M Littmann 6163 Cardiology IV Stethoscope is a great pick for its ability to pick up high-frequency sounds well. It’s able to eliminate the rubbing noise that come with traditional stethoscopes, thanks to its dual-lumen tubing.
Its headset can be adjusted which ensures your comfort. Its angled ear tubes, on the other hand, are easy to fit into ear canals.
Pros:
- Has soft-sealing ear tips
- Comfortable fit
- Doesn’t have rubbing noises
- Longer life
Cons:
- Tubing isn’t that flexible
- Diaphragm isn’t that durable
8. ADC Adscope 600 Platinum Series Cardiology Stethoscope with Tunable AFD Technology
Although the price is steep, ADC’s Adscope 600 Platinum Series model is configured using tunable AFD Technology (adjustable frequency design) for better acoustic performance. With its 18k Titanium-Gold plated finish, it’s also easy on the eyes. There are even more accessories included, which are 2 extra sets of Adsoft Plus eartips, accessory storage case, and a free scope ID tag, plus a lifetime warranty as well.
Pros:
- More accessories included
- Lifetime warranty for convenient repairs forever
Cons:
- Expensive
9. Eko CORE Digital Stethoscope (2nd Generation)
While the 1st Eko CORE Digital Stethoscope is great, its 2nd generation is even better. This cardiology-grade stethoscope has active-noise cancellation and 40x amplification. It comes with a free mobile app that you can use to visualize and record sounds.
The issues with the 1st gen Eko CORE Digital Stethoscope are its weight and size. Now, the 2nd gen CORE is 35% lighter and 25% smaller. These changes enable you to carry the stethoscope almost everywhere in the hospital.
The 2nd gen CORE also comes as a digital attachment. It enhances auscultation and allows you to hear with less background noise.
Pros:
- Cardiology-grade heart sounds
- Active noise cancellation
- 40x audio amplification
- Pairs with HIPPA compliant mobile app
- Comes with a digital attachment for sound enhancement
Cons:
- None at the moment
10. ADC – 600ST ADSCOPE 600 Cardiology Stethoscope with AFD Technology
A trusted brand of diagnostic instruments, ADC also offers the Adscope 600 stethoscope, which delivers remarkable acoustics thanks to its adjustable frequency design (AFD) technology. AFD enables tuning the diaphragm to amplify both high- and low-frequency response. More than performance, the Adscope 600 makes use of the Adsoft Plus silicone eartips for extra comfort.
Pros:
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- Free parts like diaphragms and eartips for any registered Adscope 600
Cons:
- A bit heavy
How to Choose the Best Stethoscopes – 10 Golden Rules for Nurses
Consider the following pointers in buying your own stethoscope:
Rule # 1: Check Your Budget.
It is true – quality stethoscopes are expensive so you should consider your budget first. It will be great to opt for the expensive one if its quality meets your expectations. Many nurses invest on really high-quality stethoscopes and end up using them for years.
Rule # 2: Consider Your Area or Department.
Considering the area or department where you are working is also important when choosing the best stethoscope for your needs.
If you are working in the Cardiology Department, then the cardiology stethoscope will be great for you. If you are in a pediatric ward, getting a pediatric stethoscope would be best. Specialized stethoscopes offer unique functions that are specifically useful for the designated area it was made for.
Rule # 3: Check The Requirements In Your Institution.
Nursing students are usually required to have a single tube stethoscope with bell and diaphragm. It should also have no attached electronics. Consult your hospital about the stethoscope requirements for staff nurses in your area.
Rule # 4: Look for Quality Brands.
The popular brands of stethoscope known for their quality are 3M™ Littmann®, Adscope®, Welch Allyn and Prestige. When choosing one, try each stethoscope you prefer to determine the product you’re most comfortable with. Check if there is no defect and if everything is attached well.
Rule # 5: Decide The Type Of Stethoscope You’re Comfortable Working With.
Do you prefer a single-head, dual-head or triple-head stethoscope? Do you want a sprague rappaport or a cardiology stethoscope for crispier and more detailed sound quality? You should choose the type of stethoscope you are comfortable working with as a lot of your assessments will depend on it.
Rule #6: Consider The Weight of Your Desired Stethoscope.
If you will be moving a lot around your unit, it will not be convenient to carry a heavy stethoscope in your neck or pocket. This is the reason why you should consider the stethoscope’s weight when getting one. Usually, a stethoscope designed to amplify even the lightest heart murmur is heavier because of its thick-walled tubing.
Rule # 7: Inspect The Stethoscope’s Parts.
When buying stethoscopes, you should take time in inspecting the parts. The eartips should be soft and well-sealed when fitted. Binaurals and chestpiece made from stainless steel are considered the best option for sound conductibility. The tubing should be thick with no holes or punctures.
Rule # 8: Check If The Stethoscope’s Parts Are Replaceable.
Some stethoscopes automatically have spare parts included like eartips, diaphragms and bells. For some brands, you will need to order separate parts in case you need a replacement. The most commonly replaced part of a stethoscope is the eartips and it will be great to have plenty of spare eartips available on hand.
Rule # 9: Consider Your Working Environment.
If there is a high incidence of missing stethoscopes in your area, you should first try to get a cheap to moderately priced ones. ER nurses and other nurses working outside the hospital setting usually misplace or lose their stethoscopes. This is the reason why it might not be wise to invest on high-end stethoscopes in this case. There are plenty of stethoscopes with great sound quality without the hefty price tag–you just need to look for one.
Rule # 10: Ask For Recommendations From Your Colleagues.
Because of the years of experience senior nurses have in the clinical field, you can benefit from asking them about the best type of stethoscope for nursing practice. Ask about the most effective and convenient stethoscopes to use in your assigned area as well as the brands or types of stethoscopes to avoid.
Additional Tips and Warnings:
The longer the stethoscope’s tubing is, the less sensitive the amplified sound could be. A long stethoscope is convenient to use, but always remember to check for the sound quality if it’s sensitive enough for assessments.
Stethoscopes with latex tubing are prone to cracks when left in a warm place for a long time. If you frequently hang your stethoscope around your neck, the tubing could easily crack as well, especially when it is often in contact with skin. There are very few brands of stethoscopes that offer spare tubing so you should take care of it well.
During the opening of the school year, some discounts are offered online for students getting their first stethoscopes. It is great to consider these discounts especially if you are planning to purchase an expensive one.
