Anyone using PDA's

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone is using PDA's and if you can recommend one that works well.

thanks!

Heather

[EmeraldNYL, BSN, RN]

I use an HP Jornada. It all depends on what you want to use a PDA for. There are PDAs that operate on Palm OS and there are those that operate on Pocket PC (Windows). If you are going to use it as a glorified day planner, you don't need a lot of memory or a color screen. If you plan on using it for drug references, lab references, etc.. you will need AT LEAST 32 mb memory plus a color screen. My nursing program requires PDAs; most people have a Jornada, an iPaq, or a Toshiba with 32-64 mb memory.

[Ortho_RN]

I have one its a Handspring Visor Edge... Not color, but I don't need it.. It does everything I need it to do.. Mine runs off the Palm OS and I have been able to download many many free programs for it... I have a IV Drip Calculator, ABG interpreter, and EKG interpreter, Drug Guide, and various other programs... I use it daily at clinicals, even if just to double check things...

When you are shopping for one, if you want color make sure if has a rechargable battery, some don't whether color or not... ANd the color ones can drink the juice if you use it often.. Mine has a rechargeable battery, so all I have to do is put it on the Cradle and let her charge up..

Good Luck with shopping.. I think you will enjoy whatever you get..

[NurseWeasel]

Nurs2b, which EKG interpreter do you have? I have the others on my Handspring Treo. Thanks.

[Katnip, RN]

Are there particular programs you prefer? I'd appreciate if you could let me know what they are and where to find them. I have a PDA, but Im not getting much use out of it yet.

Thanks.

[Nurse Izzy]

Palm M125 w/ expansion card. Hoping to get to upgrade to the Tungsten T, but that's just because it's a neat little gadget - nothing wrong with my M125, though! (I'd only upgrade if I can find it cheap on EBay or other auction!)

I have both ePocrates (sp?) and Davis Drug Guide loaded as well as the Taber's dictionary. In addition to those reference, I have a free-load called RN labs, I've got an IV calculator, pediatric med calculator (both for double-checks until I feel more comfortable with meds!), and EKG program...that's all that comes to mind right now outside of the standard address, dates, etc...

[Angelica]

I've got a Dell Axim. I really like it so far. I've got Davis drug, RN labs and a spanish translator for nurses.

[Audreyfay]

I use a FreeStyle Tracker. It comes with a blood sugar meter in it, so not only does it do the traditional PDA stuff, it also does my blood sugars and will track, plot, and can print them up.

[Ortho_RN]

Originally posted by NurseWeasel

Nurs2b, which EKG interpreter do you have? I have the others on my Handspring Treo. Thanks.

I don't remember the exact name (and my PDA is in my truck)... But I just got it off of the http://www.freewarepalm.com site.... It basically just shows each different type of arrythmia and explains the height of the wavs and measurements and stuff... What all do you have on yours>>

[Katnip, RN]

Thanks Nurs2B, Ill go check that out. I had epothacary on there once, but over the summer, I let the battery die and everything was wiped out. Haven't loaded it back on yet. I am not a techie, more of a tactile person who likes books, but I'll get over it.

[career seeker]

Thank you all for your info. Your comments ahve been helpful. I am planning to get one next time I am in town. Although I sm still researching whether to go with the palm or the pocket PC.

Heather

[tatianamik]

I use the Visor Neo. It uses AAA batteries. I find this is very useful as I often don't have time to recharge it.