[coopher12]

I have to buy a PDA for NS. The one suggested is the Palm TX. I am so not a techy and a little nervous about figuring it all out. I have some questions. We are required to buy software for it (4 separate). Is this something you can find any cheaper online maybe than in the campus bookstore. And excuse the ignorance, but how do you put it onto the PDA? Do you have extra memory for yours or is the internal enough. Thanks for the help!

[coopher12]

Just editing my title as I am actually not a techy at all!

[fragino]

It's kind of hard to explain how to do things on a post even when something does not have a lot of variables.

The Palm OS is a pretty good system because they make things so easy. Basically these are the steps.
1. Buy an extra memory card, at least 2 GB and install it.
2. Go to Skyscape and buy the software you need.
3. They will ask you if your computer is a Windows or a Mac. Choose one.
4. They will ask you if your PDA is a Pocket PC or a Palm.
5. Download the software to your desktop or somewhere where you can find it later.
6. After the download make sure your PDA is connected and synced to your computer.
7. Double click on the software that you downloaded.
8. Answer the questions.
9. When or if it gives you the option of using your memory card say yes.
10. When it starts installing keep on eye on your PDA because you may need to answer question there.
11. Enjoy your programs.

Obviously there are several steps that I probably left out but you will probably be able to figure it out from here. It will of course be always easier to have someone help you with your computer the first time.

Resist the temptation of having someone do it for you because in today's nursing there is no such thing as a non-tech nurse. Along with knowing all the theory, analysis and evaluation and treatment of your patient, you will need physical skill such as inserting a Foley, NG tube, IV and your gag reflex as you encounter something really gross the first time. You will be a mechanic as you figure out how to maintain pumps, tubing, and vacuums. You will need computer skills in order to chart, read your reports and order labs and meds and programming that darned IV pump.

Learn how to be a techy. This will be a good first step. Good luck to you.

[coopher12]

Wow- thanks. I did get a memory card so I guess I am starting off on the right track with familiarizing myself with it all.
Now I will wait for it to come so I can start uploading. I wouldn't think to have someone else do it for me, b/c clearly I have to learn.
Thanks again!

[mcbismark]

Curious... which 4 titles did they require you to purchase?

Thanks,
Mark

[coopher12]

The 4 are:

Taber's Med. Dictionary
Davis Drug Guide
Diseases & Disasters (SOmmers & Johnson)
RNDx Tests2for PDA's

[Fermin Hernandez]

If you are nervous about the techy part, I would go with a palm for sure.