Just accepted into RN program, what to buy before class? Chattanooga State

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I was just accepted into the RN program at Chattanooga State starting in Fall 2013. I am stressing out.. What should I buy to get ready for classes? What do I need to make it through clinicals? Chattstate sent us intention letters, and stated that we could pick up our packets on 4/22. I am a worrier, and like to be ahead of the game.

What equipment will I need to begin the program? I am sure a lot of this will be covered in the packet, but I want to get a jump start. I read another post where someone said to get the Medical Dosage Calculations for Dummies. I have bought the book, but I am finished with it.. This book is good for someone that is not very good at math.. However, I am pretty good at math so I found it slow.. ANY suggestions will be helpful! Thanks in advance!

And congrats to everyone else that has been accepted to a program!

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Specializes in Hospital Education Coordinator.

You already sound a like a nurse - worrying ahead of time!

The packet will probably tell you. If not, you will get info at orientation. I would not buy anything now but pens and paper or you could be wasting money. Good luck!!

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Thanks classicdame. I just stress a lot, and don't want to be behind!

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Do not buy one single solitary thing until they tell you to. You're going to be laying out 1K in books, supplies, ect easily. They'll probably tell you at this meeting. There isn't really a good way to get ahead. Keep practicing your medical dosages, brush up on CNA skills, and relax. You don't know how the content will be presented, and you don't know which parts your professors will emphasize. I thought I'd try and get some reading done before both semesters, before the assignments were posted. I ended up having to reread it when I got the course objectives anyway.

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Wait until you go to orientation and get the book list and start reading from there, its always better to read the material before hand so that when it comes time for class discussion you are prepared. If you can, try to brush up on your anatomy and phys a little bit, but just the basics, that will only help you. But in the mean time, enjoy the time you have off because you're certainly not going to have it once the program starts. There is no point in overwhelming yourself with material when you don't even know what you're supposed to be learning in the beginning. Once you get the book list from your professors you'll know what to read. Don't spend any more money than you have to! =)

good luck and congrats!!!

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Specializes in ER trauma, ICU - trauma, neuro surgical.

I really wouldn't buy anything. There are even some things that you won't need to buy after starting class. Don't buy a manual BP cuff for home. They have hundreds of them at the hospital and an endless supply of patient to practice on. Don't buy an expensive stethoscope. That will most likely be the one you lose by the end of the semester. A $40 scope will work fine. Get the expensive scope as a graduation present. Don't buy any medical equipment that the school provides in lab. Don't buy any tape, don't buy any pen lights, don't buys any clamps. Any gadget will either be at lab or in the hospital. (The only time you need to buy something is if they specifically tell you that you need to buy it. If they recommend something, don't buy it b/c you will never use it. I was told to buy a pen light...I borrowed one from the person who was standing next to me in lab and used it for the 8 seconds I needed. I think I was told to consider buying a manual BP cuff, a pen light, a flash card for electrolytes from the bookstore, an IV start kit, and a reflex hammer. Never needed any of it. We didn't even practice using the reflex hammer. All the electrolytes are listed in the book.

A clip board might be useful. You will use it to write on during clinical. There are clipboards that have lab values, blood work, xrays, etc. It should cost no more than a couple bucks.

I agree with the above poster that if you really want to get ahead of the game, study your books. Get familiar with the medical terminology and study the base terms. Spend time on youtube and go over video on fundamentals and anatomy. Failing a test will cause more grief than buying a pen light.

Congrats on your acceptance!

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Thanks everyone for your input! I have kept my anp & micro notes so I will read through those as suggested.

As far as not buying an expensive stethoscope, what do you recommended?

Also where can I get the clipboard with the lab values and such?

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Anxiety medication!

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Haha. I'm seriously praying I don't need that! Lol!

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Hello!! Congrats on making into the RN program @ ChSCC!! You are going to do well. I have just finished up the first year of the RN program. You definitely should get the book "Dosage calculations: Made Easy!" if you are bored with the book you have. Also, you will need to buy a cheap stethescope & pin light. You will not be issued these items from the program. Many of my classmates have purchased Littman II scopes at a hefty price but I suggest a cheap Prestige brand one as they can get lost easily. You will need to buy some comfy white sneakers to go with your orange and blue uniform. Also, get a closed clipped-board (you can find some great ones at Wal-mart). Everything you will need as far as books can be found at the ChSCC book store and online but I wouldn't get them now. I would just focus on the dosage calc test as it's what will determine if you stay in the program. Don't stress too much. They will consume you. It's not worth it. Enjoy your break, sleep and spend time with your friends/family. You life is about to change. Good luck!

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Thank you so much! That was very helpful!!

Can I use the edition prior to the one the college wants me to buy?

I got the made easy book also, but I am generally great at math.. These books/problems seem so simple. I hope I am doing them right. Lol! I have taken stats & calc 1&2 so I have a strong background for it lol.

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A 12 pack of patience and a bottle of resolve

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