Eager New BSN Student Saying Hi and Asking Some Q's

Hey all,

The name is Al and I am to start the BSN program at the U of Tampa in the spring. I can't wait to roll up my sleeves and get into the swing of things. I have an idea of what to expect as I have a lot of family are in the medical field; quite a few are specifically in nursing and as MDs, and I have worked in the medical field through my prior college years. I'm also strongly considering the military when I finally finish school. Ok, enough about me... :)

I also have some questions on where/how to procure certain things for nursing school. Primarily, I need some guidance on where to find a 'nursing-school-kit' that is of good quality yet on a modest budget.

I need:
- a stethoscope
- a sphygmomanometer
- a flashlight pen
- Bandage scissors, possibly angled
- White men's shoes for nursing [My uniform covers everything but this, if I recall correctly]

Thanks in advance and I hope to be back to the 'boards for more insightful inquiries and contributions...

-Al

I don't know about you, but I was poor while I was in nursing school. A regular small flashlight for $2.00 from Officemax or Walmart would do just fine. Where there is a school of nursing, especially a BSN program, there should be a nursing or uniform store within the same city. You could buy your uniform there. You don't necessary need $50-60 "nursing shoes" but comfortable shoes that meets your schools criteria. Litman stethascope are great and they run as low as $20.

Why are your school making you buy a sphygmomanometer? That should be provided from your school because you won't need that after nursing school unless you are doing home care. Also diff size sphygmomanometer are needed for different size arms.

Thanks for the insight.

I did find this kit online for what seems to be a decent one

It includes:
1. Stethescope (Littmann type).
2. Aneroid Sphygmomanometers. (Designed for many years of reliable service).
3. A Tote Bag (100% cotton bag with side pockets and zipper).
4. Pen torch.
5. Bandage or dressing scissors.
6. Small Kelly clamp.

For $33+S/H

http://www.americannurses.com/shopping/kits.php

Thoughts?

As far as why I would need a sphygmomanometer, I am simply reading the requirements on what was given to me.

The uniform includes a white lab coat with the school's patch on the left arm, and other school-emblazoned apparel.

I'll have to see what I can do for shoes.

-Al

Welcome to the site! Glad to have you with us.

I have always worn Reeboks....while in school and at work. Of course, that is my preference; plus, my school knew I would have problems finding Nursing shoes in size 3! Yep....size 3. The shoes lasted quite a while, too.


Good luck, and keep us posted on school.



'Cat'

Welcome Al! I'm one of the Moderators, as well as the local active duty Army Nurse SME [Subject Matter Expert]. No, not an expert per say, but that is the lingo and I am active duty if you have any questions about the ANC.

Why the sphygmomanometer? Please, get a clarification from your school before buying one... unless you plan on doing home health after your licensed.

Does your school campus have a book store with nursing student supplies? I have three health care degrees and each program had a campus with bookstore for students to purchase nursing supplies. Otherwise, the online kit sounds good to me. IMHO, you might want to invest in one of those +$200.00 Littman stehoscopes after you get licensed if you decide to go into cardiac, or ICU nursing.

For white shoes I'd suggest a pair of Nike, or Reebok walking shoes.

Be sure to visit our Male Nursing Forum, too!