I can't wait to start clinicals....

[jbjints]

I was reading the manual that the Nursing Department at my school provides their student in their BSN program and all I can say is that I am excited to be entering such a noble exciting occupation.

My school has very strict rules about their Nursing Program and I am proud to be a student their and I am looking forward to representing the school.

My birthday is February 10 and I have asked my wife for a stethoscope and a sphygmomanometer. I figured now would be a good time to start purchasing what I need for clinicals which I start next semester (September). Can anyone recommend a good stethoscope and sphygmomanometer and where I should purchase it from?

The uniform I will purchase where the school recommends I purchase it from to save myself some headache on the patch, etc.

I can't wait. =)

[happynewLPN]

I just started my clinicals two weeks ago. It's rewarding and challenging. Granted, we are starting with the basics, but it only gets better and better, I've heard.

I'm in the same boat, as far as a stethoscope and BP equipment. I'm torn between two different Littman stethoscopes. I originally wanted the Cardiology III, but I hate to buy such an expensive one now, when I might lose it, etc. in the hustle and bustle of school. I'll most likely get a cheaper Littman model, and then celebrate graduation with the Cardiology III. :)

I'll be reading replies to see what others recommend.

Welcome to clinicals!

Lisa

[SteveNNP, MSN, NP]

Hey jb,

Congrats on getting in to nursing school!

I graduated almost 2 years ago, and here's some advice...

Don't go out and buy an expensive stethescope. It'll most likely get lost or stolen during your 4 years. Just get something

Best of luck! It's great to see another guy entering the profession.... I'll be moving back to the NYC area in a few months...Keep in touch!

Stephen

[jschut, BSN, RN]

I have no suggestions, as you have already received good advice from others.

I just wanted to say that it is so refreshing to see such enthusiasm and joy about being a nurse....keep that attitude, please? It will continue to be refreshing to others who are burned out and tired. :)

Thank you!

[sddlnscp]

Our school recommended the Littman Classic II SE, which is around $80-90 and what I got. I am just getting ready to start Med/Surg, so I have used it for a little bit and it seems to be working just fine for what we need. I would recommend it. We weren't required to purchase any BP material as the hospitals/nursing homes all have those, so I don't have any myself.

Best of luck!

Edited to add: Clinicals are absolutely wonderful, you will love them! Don't let people scare you about horrible clinical experiences, wait until you're there to make your own judgements. Enjoy it, so far every step of the way has been wonderful for me!!! Oh, and even if you're scared, volunteer to do skills if you get the opportunity, there is nothing like hands-on experience and the teachers do notice. :)

[altus bulldog]

And be sure to label you stethoscope! There is nothing so frustrating than to lay yours down, forget to pick it up at the end of the day (last day of clinical at that location?) and losing it. Get a good one after graduation. By then you will have earned a new one, and you will probably need a replacement anyway. I was taught in nursing school that a stethoscope with two tubes is better than one for hearing murmers, since the sounds go through seperate tubes and into different ears:)