Gift ideas for ER newbie

Trauma Columnist · Dec 15, 2009

I couldn't get by without my iPhone...have lots of programs on it from Skyscape, ePocrates, several pedi-specific programs too.

Emergency RN · Dec 15, 2009

A PDA is only good if you understand it and are going to use it, otherwise, it becomes just another piece of pocket trash.

That said, a PDA is by far the most useful thing in the ED as the knowledge contained within can impact on your entire practice for years to come. By comparison, a pair of Trauma Shears can only make a few cuts, become dull, and then is usually thrown away. Also, there are smart phones with PDA functions, and standalone PDAs. I would go for the latter and I'll tell you why; when you change your phone company or phone, you may have to reload all your stuff, and reset and configure everything all over again. It's best to keep your phone and PDA separate.

If this is a gift meant for the special occasion that I think it is and deserves, I would give the PDA. :up:

Freedom42 · Dec 15, 2009

Great comments. Thanks for making me beam at 8:30 in the morning; I couldn't agree more that this is a special occasion! I think a little PDA research is in order.

bill4745, RN · Dec 15, 2009

Jack Daniels. Seriously, good luck. I've worked in many areas of nursing and love the ER. I hope you do too.

PAERRN20 · Dec 15, 2009

I agree with the above poster...a big bottle of high proof liquor. Throw in some earplugs and you will be set!

In all seriousness how bout a nice stethoscope like a Litmann if you don't have one? In my ER we have all the information on computers so I would never use a PDA. Only one of the nurses I work has one and she rarely uses it. To each their own. Good luck!

Editorial Team / Moderator · Dec 15, 2009

My medic partner at the firestation bought me a Littmann Cardiology III when I graduated from nursing school and started as an RN in the ED. It's personalized too, so no one can steal it!

SpaceCoastRN · Dec 16, 2009

http://www.amazon.com/Emergency-Critical-Care-Pocket-Guide/dp/189049528X/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260958228&sr=8-2

http://www.amazon.com/Nurses-Pocket-Drug-Guide-2010/dp/007162743X/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260958345&sr=1-7

Two books that I have with me that come in handy. That and I have not found any scrubs I like better than Aviator Scrubs. Lots of pockets, no fading in the 7 months I've been wearing them and just a very high quality feel too them. Be aware though, they don't look nearly as nice as Koi's or some of the other feminine scrubs so if fashion is as important as function your mileage my vary a bit than mine.

Larry77, RN · Dec 16, 2009

I agree with the Iphone suggestion...couldn't live without mine. Do you have comfortable shoes?

Personally I don't like the pro-packs but I know a lot on here do (too close to fanny-packs in my eyes). I just use cargo pants :)

Congrats and have fun!

Editorial Team / Moderator · Dec 16, 2009

Gotta have cargo pockets. I love my Dickies scrubs! I buy the "hip flip" pants, which (thank goodness) come in petite sizes so they aren't a million yards too long for my 59" self. They have great cargo pockets, too. I've had some of my Dickies scrubs for at least 4 years, and they're still going strong. I can fit my little notepad, a pen, and my trauma shears in the pockets, among other things (alcohol preps, etc.). I carry a little notepad to write down vitals or whatever; I had to start doing that to quit writing all over my hands. :)