I just started working as an LPN in a rehabilitation hospital so we are always getting new admissions some with meds I never heard of. I was just wondering if anyone uses PDA's as their source for a drug book. If so, how much did it cost and what was the brand? I have come across a few people who have a PDA and they say that it comes in handy and is very resourceful. As you can see as a new grad I am scared of making a med error. Any information regarding PDA is greatly appreciated.
Kathy

I'm on my 3rd PDA. The best advice someone gave me was to buy a PALM brand. No one I know knows much about them, I've
taught myself and it wasn't that hard! If you buy one purchase it from a best buy, or circuit city so you can get your hands on it the day you purchase it and purchase a 3 year warranty on the spot. Palms are replaced by those places same day with a new unit, they don't send them off for repair and make you wait. I suggest you check out www.palm.com. I now own a Zire71 that has a built in digital camera, and an mp3 player (I've never used that yet). But for a nursing student like me my palm has been worth it's weight in gold. I have a folding keyboard that attaches so its just like having a laptop with me. Check out the Palm site, I'm sure for the $300 you'll be convinced.

Thank you so much Reesa. I was actually checking out the flyers in today's paper for Circuit City and Best Buy and what a coincidence I had my eye on the Zire 71. I will definitely check out that site. Thank you again for your help. I'll let you know how I make out.
Kathy

I personally have a Palm130 and it is great. Several people I know use them for drug reference with software that they purchased. Also it is a good way to keep up with appt.'s. I have not purchased the program for the drug reference yet but am looking into that since it can be a good source and save time from flipping in a book. I did a lot of research on the different types and brands before purchasing mine. Because I didn't want to buy one that would be out of date in a few months. Hope this helps.

Pam

wouldn't do my ER nursing without the trusty pda in my pocket. it's a wonderful QUICK reference for my meds.

I have a great program that was FREE, called MedCalc.
http://medcalc.med-ia.net definately worth checking out.

I love my PDA, I have a Dell Axim. My software includes Davis Drug guide, Stedman's medical dictionary, RN Diseases, RN Labs, and archimedes.

Thank you everyone for the helpful information. I am adjusting this week from working first shift to second so I will probably head to the store sometime this weekend. Thank you so much I let you know how I make out. BTW so far second shift really sucks. lol Just had to vent.

Originally Posted by EmeraldNYL

I love my PDA, I have a Dell Axim. My software includes Davis Drug guide, Stedman's medical dictionary, RN Diseases, RN Labs, and archimedes.

emeraldNYL,

Was there a software that you bougt to download onto your PDA. I would like to have medications and all of the things you mentioned you had on yours.

Thanks

April

Originally Posted by huganurse524

I just started working as an LPN in a rehabilitation hospital so we are always getting new admissions some with meds I never heard of. I was just wondering if anyone uses PDA's as their source for a drug book. If so, how much did it cost and what was the brand? I have come across a few people who have a PDA and they say that it comes in handy and is very resourceful. As you can see as a new grad I am scared of making a med error. Any information regarding PDA is greatly appreciated.
Kathy

I use mine several times daily. I've got a Dell Axim that I've loaded with lots of medical programs (I'm a Nurse Practitioner). PM me and I'll send you a list of the freebies if you'd like.

Tina