What is a dual-head stethoscope?

to be honest, I've never seen a nurse actually use a bell on a stethoscope. I'd get your name engraved on the head of that Littmann. I have a cardiology III and yes, it has both a bell and diaphragm. That said, it is probably more expensive than a nurse would need as previously stated.

dual-head stethoscope is the bell at the end of this stethoscope is a double bell. Use a dual head stethoscope without the confusion that commonly accompanies its use. Too often the double bell stethoscope is avoided because people are unfamiliar with it or the single bell stethoscope is simply easier to use. Adjust the stethoscope to increase comfort and maximize hearing. Learn when to use the small bell and the larger bell Tips :1. for using: Select the proper position of the bell by twisting the connector. Do this improperly and the heartbeat will come from the bell pressed by your finger instead of the bell on the patient. Use the bell without a diaphragm by pressing lightly and the bell with the diaphragm by pressing more firmly for best results. Store the stethoscope with the diaphragm side selected for use to help keep out debris and allow immediate general use. 2. Do not let loud sounds enter the bell while wearing the stethoscope since it could damage your hearing. Do not use the stethoscope if it is uncomfortable. Clean the earpieces before each use. Remove the rubber ear pieces to clean them well. Inspect the stethoscope before use to ensure that each piece is in good condition. Do not get the stethoscope wet, hot, or covered in corrosive chemicals. Do not immerse. Make sure that the tubing is long enough to operate comfortably when using the stethoscope for long periods of time. -------Hopefully it help.

No one is directly answering your question, it seems like.

A dual head stethoscope is what I think of as a "normal" stethoscope. The metal part you place on the patient will have a larger diaphragm and the smaller bell on the other side. Depending on the sound you are listening for, you can use either side.

See the link for a picture:

http://www.kila.com/pic10/K500A/TuneFull.JPG

To be honest, I'd go with something inexpensive, like a Sprague-Rappoport.

http://www.armstrongmedical.com/itm_img/AD125.MS.j...

They cost less than $20, so it doesn't hurt so much when it gets stolen.

As a nurse, you are not going to be listening for subtle S3 sounds or pleural rubs. You're going to be listening for wheezing, rales and very basic heart sounds, and any stethoscope is going to work for that.

Another hint: if you stick with girly colors, the male docs are less likely to walk off with your stethoscope.

Dual-head stethoscopes, like the Sprague-Rappaport type, have a diaphragm that's better for hearing higher-pitched sounds, and a bell that's better for hearing low-pitched sounds.

the smaller bell side focuses on more focused area. To pick up heart sounds in more detail and hear any subtle abnormalities.

Maybe buy a new one at your student supply store. Then you'll get what you need for clinical.