ATI, PDA, and stethoscope.

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1. I was wondering if the ATI testing program is worth purchasing($330+s&h).

2. What is the best PDA to get when starting the RN program?

3. Does anyone know where you can get a good deal on a littman stethoscope?

Thanx

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Specializes in SRNA.

I just ordered my Littman via www.allheart.com, seems that you can find the best prices there or via eBay if you are willing to do a bit of searching.

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Specializes in ICU, Emergency Department.

I second allheart.com. They have great prices on Littmann's; in fact, I'm getting one from my DBF for my birthday :)

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Specializes in Cardiac.

1. No idea on ATI

2. I got a Palm TX off Ebay for $135.

3. I got my littman from http://www.steeles.com/index.html for the same price as Allheart.

(They engrave the bell of the scope, Allheart does the tubing that wears off and can be replaced)

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I'd say no to ATI. It was a requirement for my school, part of our tuition bill. I did find it useful, but now that I am studying for NCLEX and reading on that forum, it sounds to me that the Kaplan NCLEX program is a better use of the money. However, I did find the ATI books very useful for the times when I didn't have time to read my textbooks and to simplify and clarify things. I also liked taking all the assessments. It gave me extra practice with testing in front of a computer (proctored ones at school plus many practice ones at home) and gave me a good idea of how likely I am to pass NCLEX. So I do think it has some value, but I think the price is high. Most of my classmates didn't crack open any of the books or do any of the practice assessments. If you think you would utilize both, then it is something to consider.

I agree with the others about allheart.com. That's where I got mine.

Good luck!!

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2. What is the best PDA to get when starting the RN program?

I have Palm TX and an Ipod Touch. Amazing combination.

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Specializes in NP / USAFR Flight Nurse.

The program I was in included the ATI books, dvd's, and tests. I feel like they really helped me to prepare for the NCLEX. I would say they are definately worth $300.00.

You can get great deals on PDS's on Ebay that are loaded with nursing and medical software. I got a Tungsten for $165 that had 2GB of programs that I used DAILY in clinicals. I had my Taber's, drug books, and

Lab values/implications all in my pocket :)

Stethescope...that depends how much you want to pay. Id say Littman Lite is a good one and you can get it from Allheart for cheap.

Good luck

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Specializes in DOU.

I vote no on the ATI program, and I love my Palm TX.

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Specializes in being a Credible Source.

We had to buy ATI starting the program and I do not think it was/is worth the money. I'd just get an NCLEX review book and work it diligently.

Another vote for the Palm T/X

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1. I don't know about the ATI, but I do love my NCLEX review books with cd's. I graduate in December =) and I don't know what to do when I don't have a book around to review questions. Plus they have helped with tests throughout school b/c they give rationales for why you chose the wrong or right answer!

2. I got my Littman from ebay and it was brand new for cheap!

3. Literally, my favorite thing for nursing school both classroom and clinicals is my PDA. I got a Dell Axim loaded with 2 GB of nursing software for $175 shipped. I use it all the time. It has both skyscape and uboundmedicine loaded on it. There are threads dedicated to just the topic of PDAs.

Just my :twocents: worth! Good luck!

~Erica

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If you don't have to buy the ATI books, then don't do it. There are a multitude of good NCLEX style books that you can purchase that have CD's with thousands of questions for practice. We HAD to purchase the ATI books and I don't think they're worth the $$$. In fact, the students have protested so much that they may be taking them off the "required" list. We'll still have to take the ATI tests during the semester, but we can use the books of our choice.

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I say yes on the ATI. The pass rate is great for them, much cheaper than the alternatives, and if you dont pass the first time they'll pay for you to take the NCLEX until you pass. If you pay $300 for the ATI and dont pass the NCLEX the first time then you've paid for the ATI already.

PDA? I didnt find that it was a necessity. I had one and never really used it. I did use the calendar and organizer extensively.

Stethoscope? Search for the best price and go there. I got my cardiology III from reddingmedical.com. they had the cheapest price after shipping

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