Are you new to nursing or just in the market for a new stethoscope? If so, here you will find the best stethoscope for nurses. Of course, other healthcare professions will benefit from this information as well! We’ve looked at acoustics, comfortability, durability, and more to help you choose the best stethoscope for you.
If you’re looking for cost-effective, versatile, and great tools, we’ve got you covered. Stethoscopes are definitely critical in healthcare and nursing, so finding the perfect fit is imperative to effective performance. See what’s right for you below and thank you for your service!
Best Overall Stethoscope for Nurses
3M Littmann Classic III
- Monitor and assess a wide range of patients
- Single-piece tunable diaphragm is easy to attach, and easier to clean because its surface is smooth without crevices
- Pediatric side converts to a traditional open bell by replacing the single-piece diaphragm with a non-chill rim
- Next generation tubing provides longer life due to improved resistance to skin oils and alcohol; less likely to pick up stains
- Small tunable diaphragm is useful for pediatric, small, or thin patients; around bandages; and for carotid assessment
The 3M Littmann Classic III tops our list. It’s well built with great acoustics and extreme versatility. This is simply one of the best stethoscopes ever made, and it’s certainly the best we’ve seen yet!
PROS
- Tunable Diaphragm
- Pediatric Side
- 5 Year Promise
CONS
- Some Complaints with Auscultation
Best Budget Stethoscope for Nurses
MDF Acoustica Deluxe
- Handcrafted Since 1971 | Free-parts-for-life Program | Lifetime Warranty | Latex-free |
- ALL-PURPOSE LIGHTWEIGHT STETHOSCOPE > Durable, convenient, lightweight, and high sound performance
- Includes 3 pairs of MDF ComfortSeal eartips: Small, Regular, and Large. Eartips are included in our Free-parts-for-life Program
- The super-duty, lightweight aluminum dual-head chestpiece is precisely machined and hand polished for high performance and durability
- PREVENT PUNCTURED EAR DRUMS Patented SafetyLock Eartip Adaptors
It’s not a Littmann, but the MDF Acoustica Deluxe would be a great starter stethoscope for anyone. And it’s certainly great for anyone on a tight budget! You’ll save a lot of money with this one. The design is lightweight and durable, so it’s fit for anyone.
PROS
- Awesome for the Price
- Lifetime Warranty
- Perfect for Students
CONS
- Some Recommend the MD One Model
Best Runner Up Stethoscope for Nurses
3M Littmann Stethoscope – Master Classic II
- Award winning ergonomic design and excellent acoustic sensitivity deliver comfort and reliable diagnostic performance
- Tunable diaphragm responds with a simple pressure change to capture low and high-frequency sounds
- Anatomically designed headset is angled to meet the path of the ear canal
- Non-chill rim and diaphragm offers welcome patient comfort.Diaphragm Diameter 1.75 Inch Diaphragm Diameter (metric) 1.73 inches
- Latex free materials for allergy sensitive users; Headset Material: Wide diameter aerospace alloy / Anodized aluminum
The 3M Littmann Stethoscope Master Classic II made our best runner up. I personally don’t think you can go wrong with any Littmann model. This Stethoscope is designed for ergonomics as well as durability.
PROS
- Resiliant and Flexible
- Long-Lasting
- Great Acoustics
CONS
- Some Complaints About Diaphragm
Best Under $50 Dollars
3M Littmann Lightweight II S.E. Stethoscope
- Provides reliable acoustic performance for taking blood pressure readings and making limited physical assessments of adult patients.
- Tunable diaphragm responds with a simple pressure change to capture low and high-frequency sounds
- Tear-drop shape for easy fit under blood pressure cuff. Epoxy/Fiberglass diaphragm Material
- Anatomically designed headset is angled to meet the path of the ear canal
- Nonchill rim and diaphragm provide welcome patient comfort
If you’re looking for another budget-friendly option, try the 3M Littmann Lightweight II S.E. Stethoscope. The lightweight model weighs only 118 grams and is made for reliability, performance, and comfort.
PROS
- Extreme Comfort
- Ergonomic Design
- Very Easy to Use
CONS
- 2 Year Warranty (Only)
Alternative 1
- Pink 9 pieces + Bonus Penlight – Medical Student Kit / Nursing Kit for Nurses.
- Includes Tuning Fork Lister Scissor Taylor Hammer Kelly Splinter Forceps Stethoscope
- Nursing Kits comes in Black, Blue, Pink & Red Colors
- Nurse must haves Nurse Gadgets / Med School Starter Pack. Ideal Kit for nursing kits for Students
- Made out of Medical Grade Stainless Steel & Quality Materials
Alt 2
- Aneroid sphygmomanometer / stethoscope combination kit includes our most popular aneroid sphygmomanometer matched with the best selling traditional Sprague-Rappaport stethoscope
- Unique five-in-one design, the Sprague-Rappaport stethoscope is the most versatile stethoscope available
- Latex free, nylon cuff, Index and Range Markings, artery indicator mark, owner ID label, gauge holder, standard inflation bulb and air release valve, matching 6″x9″ nylon carry case
- Cuff Range: 10″-16″
- Lifetime Calibration Warranty
FAQ
What is the best stethoscope for nurses?
The Littmann brand has made a name for itself amongst healthcare professionals. The company has worked hard to make affordable, durable, and versatile stethoscopes for anyone in the business. You really can’t go wrong with a Littmann!
What type of stethoscope does a nurse need?
Any of the stethoscopes on this list will be fine. It really depends on your personal preference, area of expertise, and level of career. If you are just getting started, go for an inexpensive model then upgrade in the future.