Which watch is best?

goodn · Dec 20, 2005

With these over 40 eyes, I say any watch that you can see is good! :>)

Larry77, RN · Dec 20, 2005

One of the nurses at work has a Nike watch that is digital but has seconds counting int he background in huge numbers...might be something to consider...I have no idea how much they run though. Take a look at Ebay they have tons of watches very cheap.

Hoozdo, ADN · Dec 20, 2005

I have always been fond of digital watches. I enjoy being able to quickly change from standard to military time with one button. I usually buy as cheap as I can while still having a light to see the time.
Since I have looked into nursing school, I have found many people telling me to avoid digital watches and opt for a second hand watch. Is this really necessary? I know several doctors, nurses, EMTs, CNAs/STNAs, and others who use digital watches and seem to do fine. I have seen many ERs, ICUs and even entire hospitals switch over to digital clocking systems. Is it beneficial only in this area? I have heard that it all depends on what time frame you were raised in that determines what kind you will use. Please explain.
I am looking for advice from everyone out there. Which kind of watch do you wear and why? Can vitals be taken as easily with a digital vs second hand watch? I am looking for a watch with seconds (digital or second hand), indiglo/light, lightweight, and reasonably cheap.
Thanks always.

I have learned you better have one that is semi-water proof too. All that handwashing does impact your watch!

kadokin, ASN, RN · Dec 20, 2005

Yes, waterproof w/a sweep second hand. And a BIG, easily-readable face. I have a timex indiglo which is very handy in the late-night hours. I have never tried to use a digital watch to time resp'r'ns or pulse, but I would think it would present a problem w/precision b/c you would have to wait until the minute changes. W/a sweep second hand, you would be able to tell that just by glancing at it, w/o having to wait for the digits to flip. I have seen some folks use a pendant-type watch attached to their shirt, too. I would think this would be a little easier than twisting the wristwatch around your wrist to find the face. I don't like the metal expandbles b/c moisture gets trapped under them too easily when you are constantly washing your hands and it grabs onto and pulls those little arm hairs. OUCH!

nialloh, RN · Dec 20, 2005

Yes, waterproof w/a sweep second hand. And a BIG, easily-readable face. I have a timex indiglo which is very handy in the late-night hours. I have never tried to use a digital watch to time resp'r'ns or pulse, but I would think it would present a problem w/precision b/c you would have to wait until the minute changes. W/a sweep second hand, you would be able to tell that just by glancing at it, w/o having to wait for the digits to flip. I have seen some folks use a pendant-type watch attached to their shirt, too. I would think this would be a little easier than twisting the wristwatch around your wrist to find the face. I don't like the metal expandbles b/c moisture gets trapped under them too easily when you are constantly washing your hands and it grabs onto and pulls those little arm hairs. OUCH!

Too true. I used a digital watch for years. One day the battery died and I had to use my analog watch. I found it faster and easier to use. I also use waterproof watches.

Chad_KY_SRNA · Dec 20, 2005

If I wear a watch it has a second hand. I personally don't like the looks of digital watches, my uncle who is a nurse always wears digital watches and he has never complained about it.

**RosesrReder, BSN, MSN, RN** · Dec 20, 2005

I bought a waterproof watch with seconds hand and changeable strap. Very cheap too but does the job.