How to Choose a Stethoscope

A stethoscope is valuable tool in the arsenal of a veterinarian. Find out how to choose the best stethoscope.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide what you'll be using the stethoscope for. In veterinary medicine, different sized stethoscopes are needed for different sized animals. Adult stethoscopes work best for bigger animals and pediatric stethoscopes are better for small dogs and cats. As a result, a veterinarian should purchase a stethoscope on which the heads can be switched easily. Alternatively, you may consider purchasing one adult and one pediatric stethoscope.

2. Consider the acoustical quality of the stethoscope. Ear tips should fit comfortably and securely in your ears. Double tubing is often more sensitive. A combination bell/diaphragm design will allow you to hear both high and low frequency sounds.

3. Examine the durability of the stethoscope. In a busy practice, a stethoscope can suffer a lot of abuse.

4. Lastly, determine the price of the stethoscope you are considering.

Tips & Warnings

• Before you purchase, try several different stethoscopes with multiple ear pieces and decide which one works best for you.
• Make sure the stethoscope you choose is comfortable for you or you may be tempted not to use it as often as you should.
• Remember, choosing the best stethoscope can be a very personal, individual decision, much like choosing a piece of clothing or a hairstyle. What works best for you may not necessarily be what works best for your colleague. The main objective is to be able to hear those abnormal heart murmurs and abnormal lung sounds.