Any "tools" you love?

[rafv]

Hi all! I am in my third semester of a 4 semester ADN program. Just wondering if anybody has any invaluable tools they would recommend? I found a foldable clipboard online but not sure it would fit in the pocket of my scrub top. Anybody use the foldable clipboard? Thanks in advance for any tips! :)

[FlyingScot, RN]

The small light blue Tubex adapter. If you can get your hands on one, guard it with your life!

[aachavez]

I keep a spiral notebook or notepad (5x7) with me, it fits in my cargo pocket or top pocket. Scissors. Pen light, a good pen, and a GOOD steth. I've been using a cheap-o steth, and i kinda hate it, cant wait to upgrade. Have a few apps on my phone that are amazing, I've gotten more use out of my Davis drug guide than any other text I have so far.

[springchick1, ADN, RN]

I've got a clipboard that you can store things in. It's great! I put all my paperwork, my scissors, pen, penlight and Littman in it. It's great!

[reconmom00]

I've got a clipboard that you can store things in. It's great! I put all my paperwork my scissors, pen, penlight and Littman in it. It's great![/quote']

Where did you purchase the clipboard, if you don't mind me asking!

[Mommy&RN, BSN, RN]

Staples, Office Depot carry them. Medscape app i use nearly every shift.

[reconmom00]

Staples Office Depot carry them. Medscape app i use nearly every shift.[/quote']

Thank you so much!!

[rafv]

The small light blue Tubex adapter. If you can get your hands on one, guard it with your life!

Stupid question but won't these be available for us? My student status is clearly showing! I so appreciate the tips; please keep them coming! :)

[rafv]

I, too, have a clipboard in which I can store things. My only issue is that I never quite know where to put it when I go into a patient's room. Thanks so much for all of the great ideas; what a wonderfully supportive "place"! :)

[dah doh, BSN, RN]

Tubex or carpojets...no they aren't provided for you...I "acquired" a dozen or so when I was a med-surg nurse, but when I transferred to CCU, they laughed at me with my med-surg clipboard and carpojets/tubexs. No, I am not putting carpojets/tubex down since I used to love mine (hence why I had so many); I just had to adapt to what they did. So it will depend on what facility and unit you work on...you will adapt to their method.

[rafv]

Dah doh, how do you like ccu? How long were you in med surg? Which do you like better? I know, off on a tangent... Sorry.

[dah doh, BSN, RN]

@rafv: I did med-surg-tele for almost 2 years (prior to the institution of nursing ratios in my state). I've been in Critical Care for over a decade now. I just love it! I also work in our ER, step down unit, and stroke unit. I'm always happy to return to CCU. The secret is to find your niche...it's good to listen to opinions but you need to find what's right for you. It took my hubby many jobs over many years on many units and different facilities to figure it out!

[rafv]

I can certainly see how that's true! The rotations I thought I'd love (OB/peds), I absolutely did not enjoy. Liked med surg but am loving cadiac so far. We'll see....

Still have oncology and neuro & psych to do.... :)