Are PDA's Really Necessary?

[whiteoleander5]

Although they arent required at my school (Thank GOD, because everything else is expensive enough as it is!), I was wondering what everyone thinks of them. It seems that everyone I talk to in school either has one or is getting one. I do really think it would be helpful, particularly in the clinical setting when you are draw a blank and think "HMM Whats that again?!"...But on the other hand, I really dont feel like buying one... unless I knew for sure that it would make a difference in my education. I already have all the necessary textbooks, and I carry index cards around with me that have lab values on them. I dont really have the money for a PDA since im a poor college student :uhoh21:... but, if someone were to tell me "It will make all the difference!" then I would find a way to buy one... Ive been going back & forth...

Just wondering what everyones opinion is. Thanks.

[txakolina]

I was required to buy one for NS with Pepid Student RN, but I've found that I only use the drug guide on it - but most of the time that isn't even necessary because the clinical sites always have drug books laying around. In my opinion, they are definitely not necessary to do well in NS or in clinical.

[lainith]

I have one and I have yet to use it. I am hoping to load some software on it during break and learn to make use of it. Others in my class have them but none of us really use them much yet.

[chuckz, BSN, RN]

I have an ipod touch and it is amazing with Epocrates and Skyscape. I have Taber's, a drug guide, a Clinical Medicine and CC Nursing program that are invaluable to me in school and as a tech in an ICU. For me, it was worthwhile, not needed but worthwhile.

[jbw1017]

I don't think a pda is a necessity for clinical. Just as others have said they are physical drug books & one on the computer.

I do have books download to my blackberry that I use to study from. It saves me from lugging a bag of books to my daughter's 2 hour gymnastics class!

:yelclap:

[catherine_cardella]

I don't think they are necessary. I've seen plenty of computers at nurses station with internet access that you can use to look up info.

However, I can see how PDAs may be helpful for home health nurses who don't have easy access to the internet.

[rowan_dreams]

I have an iPhone, and I use the drug books and the med calc software. Oh, and the calculator! LOL

[moncj66]

No, it really isn't..I purchased one and I have a BB and I find myself NEVER using any of the programs that I download on either one..I guess im just old fashioned..