Every CE requirement verified against official state nursing board sources. How RenewRN verifies the data →
Every CE requirement verified against official state nursing board sources. How RenewRN verifies the data →
A stethoscope is a buy-it-once tool, so it's worth getting the right one. For most floor and med-surg nurses the Littmann Classic III is the default. If you're in the ICU, ER, or cardiac care and need to hear subtle sounds, the Cardiology IV is the upgrade. New grads: the Classic III is plenty.
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3M Littmann Classic III
Top pickThe default nurse stethoscope — tunable diaphragm, great for med-surg and new grads.
3M Littmann Cardiology IV
PremiumICU/ER/cardiac upgrade — superior acoustics for subtle heart and lung sounds.
MDF Acoustica
BudgetA solid budget alternative if you're not ready for a Littmann.
Buying tip: Engrave it or tag it — stethoscopes walk off. Match the model to your unit; you don't need a Cardiology IV for med-surg.
Prices and availability change — check the current listing on Amazon.