Having medical tools that are reliable and accurate is a must anytime you see a patient, but when time is limited, a stethoscope that can catch irregularities in a matter of seconds can literally be life or death. That’s why we recommend Littman, MDF and FriCARE Stethoscopes.
The Littman style of stethoscopes was developed in the 1960s by Harvard Medical Professor David Littmann, who made improvements to the previous model of stethoscope being used in the medical field. Making it lighter and improving the acoustics, Littmann’s model was bought by 3M and continues to be a leader in medicine today.
Whether you’re a medical student or professional, having a stethoscope that is not only reliable and accurate but appropriate for your field of medicine is crucial for proper diagnosis.
1. 3M Littmann Cardiology IV Diagnostic Stethoscope
An updated version of the Model III, the 3M Littmann Cardiology IV Diagnostic Stethoscope features a chest piece that is 40 percent larger and a bell that is 60 percent deeper, making it easier to distinguish between difficult to hear sounds like heart murmurs and aortic stenosis. For medical professionals working in critical care environments like the Emergency Room, Intensive Care Unit and Cardiac ICU, the 3M Littmann Cardiology IV Diagnostic Stethoscope can enable users to hear subtle changes in a patient’s status.
Pros: The 3M Littmann Cardiology IV Diagnostic Stethoscope features a redesigned single-piece turntable diaphragm on each side of the chest piece, making it easy to switch between patients in different age groups.
Cons: Some options may be more economical.
2. MDF Instruments MD One Stainless Steel Premium Dual Head Stethoscope
For medical professionals who work in clinic settings, the MDF MD One Stethoscope is a great addition to their practice. The MD One is appropriate for a wide range of patients, making it ideal for everything from a family practice to an OBGYN clinic or urgent care. Thanks to its adjustable ear tips, anyone will be able to find the most comfortable setup for this device.
Pros: The MD One is available in 20 color options and has a lifetime warranty and free parts for life from MDF.
Cons: Some of the colors can get a little wacky and may not be best suited for all hospitals and offices.
3. Dual Head Stethoscope by FriCARE
For those who need a basic but reliable stethoscope that won’t break the bank, we recommend the Dual Head Stethoscope by FriCARE. The Dual Head only comes in one color (black, pictured below) but it comes with 28 inches of durable tubing for premium sound and quality that won’t fall apart. Furthermore, the set comes with additional ear pieces and a five-warranty in case something is amiss.
Pros: The Dual Head has a tunable diaphragm that can capture low and high frequencies simply by applying more or less pressure.
Cons: Only available in one color.