Littman Models 3000 and 3100 Electronic Stethoscopes

[rock_shoes]

Thanks all for your responses... I think Ill stick to an acoustic scope for now. Much appreciated as always.

In that case both the Cardiology III and the Master Cardiology are excellent. I ended up with the Cardiology III as a Christmas present from my sister and have used it enough to know I would replace it with the identical stethoscope should anything ever happen to it. Strangely enough I also had a run of pediatric calls right after acquiring a scope with a pediatric bell.

Edited August 11, 2009 by rock_shoes

[FireMedic65]

Unless you are working in an environment that's really quiet, I don't suggest you get one. I have tried one on the ambulance before, and in patients homes. You pick up a lot of background noise. Even with using the adjustments, I just don't feel it's worth it.

[Richard B the EMT]

It seems the electronic stethoscopes would pick up engine noise, the siren(s), road vibrations, and it's own artifact noise on movement. It would be impossible to eliminate those in a field setting.

Therefore, my interpretation of the consensus seems to be, the electronic 'scopes are probably great in the hospital setting, but can cause problems field-side, where the majority of us would use them.