[NurseCandy]

Quick PDA question. I am an RN with ADHD working in an NICU. Still in orientation. I have been given permission by the neonatologist to carry a PDA (wouldn't allow cheat sheet [cross-contamination] - at least a PDA can wiped down with alcohol). What kind should I get, and what kind of software should be loaded into it? Quick help would be greatly appreciated. I go back to work in three days. Thanks!

[Aaron C.]

It depends on how much money you want to spend and what else you'll use it for, such as wireless internet access, etc.

I would get an Ipaq. The first software you would want to add would be a drug database. You can purchase one, or download a free one from epocrates.com. They have a nice one for free as well as an upgrade to purchase. There are several free ones out there and several that cost.

There is also plenty of other nursing related software that you can add.

Dell has a pretty good handheld as well. Cost would be 250-500 dollars roughly, for a new one. Check ebay, they have tons of them for sale.

[All41]

Now this is some helpful information!! I was diagnosed with ADHD about 1 1/2yrs. ago. It probably saved my life! I would love to e-mail with you on your current meds, etc.
lpatterson5@triad.rr.com

[Aaron C.]

1/5 years ago, roughly around the same time I was too... awww! I take Concerta. Think the doc wants to keep me away from Adderal since it is basically methamphetamine but Adderal really helps me 10x more than Concerta, which honestly does me little good. My brother is adhd and he takes Adderal. I used to take his alot and it did wonders for my study habits and attention span in school.

[NurseCandy]

In addition to ADHD, I am also "blessed" with bipolar disorder and anxiety. I take Concerta, Lexapro, and Lithium. We just increased the dose on the Concerta and Lexapro on Monday. I'm hoping some of that will be kicking in by Friday evening when I go back to work.

[All41]

Have you guys read "Driven to Distraction"? It is a great book! Aaron, I knew you were brilliant but now I know whyI am currently takiing only Wellbutrin. That pill is a miracle drug for me. Two weeks, I quit smoking and quit anesthetising myself. Best thing that ever happened to me.
I was taking Dexadrine but I found it made me mean. Actually, it was probably my enviornment! I plan to ask for something different like adderall but I am doing a lot of research to find out what might be best.

[Aaron C.]

Concerta, Paxil, Wellbutrin, Diovan.

I hate being on all of these and am getting ready to get away from the Paxil just because, and go down a tad on the Wellbutrin. The Diovan is necessary though. Once I'm done with school I'm going to get off the Concerta too.

My doctor basically just does whatever I tell him too, up this, down that, let's try this, etc. I think I'm just a hypochondriac because I'm a nursing student.

Wellbutrin has helped me to control my urges as well, I've slowed down alot of my bad habits since taking it.

Anyway, this thread quickly turned into a whole different pill