Graduate Nursing Student Mobile Device (PDA) Requirement

updated 5/15/2009

Mobile computing devices (previously known as Personal Digital Assistants or PDAs) are useful tools in a variety of clinical settings. As an extension of your desktop or laptop computer, they provide quick access to reference materials and medical applications. All graduate nursing students are required to own a mobile device. For more resources see the Library’s Mobile Resources page on a computer, or m.hsl.virginia.edu on an iPhone or iPod Touch.

Recommended software

• Epocrates RX
• For more suggested software, see the Library’s Health and Medical Mobile Software page .

m.hsl.virginia.edu & the Mobile User Group

The Health Sciences Library has developed a portal specifically for use by iPhones and iPod Touches, m.hsl.virginia.edu , to give quick access to mobile-optimized library and university resources, as well as software and support for these devices. Linked from this page is also the Library’s Mobile User Group blog and discussion forum, which are regularly updated with items of note and usefulness for clinical use of mobile devices.

If you will be purchasing a new mobile device, we recommend the following models:

Standard

• Model: Apple iPod Touch 8-GB
• Operating System: 2.1 or later
• Approximate cost: $200

SmartPhone

• Model: Apple iPhone 3G 8-GB
• Operating System: 2.1 or later
• Approximate cost: $200 plus monthly calling plan fees

The Major Differences

The iPod Touch and iPhone use the same operating system and can run the same software. Both have WiFi built in, and have identical iPod capabilities for playing music, videos and podcasts. The iPhone is also a cell phone, currently only available for the AT&T; network. It also includes a camera, microphone and speakers which are not included in the iPod Touch. The iPhone allows you to check mail and surf the Web over a cell phone connection, as well as a WiFi connection. Both models work equally well for medical applications.

Should I get the models with more memory?

Both iPod Touch and iPhone models are available with more than 8-GB of memory. The standard 8-GB models are fine for running medical applications. The only reason to consider the higher capacity models is if you want to store large amounts of music or video on your device.

Where to Buy

iPod Touches are available at all Apple retail locations, including Cavalier Computers, Walmart and Best Buy. iPhones are available only through AT&T; retail locations, Walmart, Best Buy, and Apple’s online store.

How much are iPhone calling plans?

Please see AT&T;’s current iPhone plan information .

Desktop/Laptop Connectivity

A personal computer with Internet access is required to install mobile software and perform regular updates. See the Apple and Palm sites for minimum operating system requirements.

Can I use a Palm T|X or Palm OS Smartphone?

While our recommendation is the iPod Touch or iPhone because of their ease of use, stability and security, you may use a Palm T|X, Palm OS Centro or Treo smartphones. All the major medical software packages are available for the Palm OS. You may also be able to purchase a used Palm device from upperclassmen. We recommend the purchase of a 1-GB external memory card with any Palm device.

The Palm T|X is a WiFi enabled PDA with e-mail and Web browser. The Palm Centro and Treo smartphones use a cell phone connection for Internet access, and they too have e-mail and Web browser software. Palm OS smartphones do not have WiFi. All three run all the common medical software applications. The Palm smartphones are available through Verizon, AT&T;, Sprint, and Alltel. The Centro is also available unlocked from Palm.com.

How about Windows Mobile devices?

While the Windows Mobile platform now has more medical software titles available than in the past, the number of applications for this platform still lags behind the Palm OS, and the functionality lags behind the iPod Touch/iPhone. We do not recommend the purchase of Windows Mobile devices for students. If you have a Windows Mobile device, staff members may not be able to assist you in installing or troubleshooting applications.

How about Blackberrys?

While Blackberrys are good phones, the medical software available for this platform lags behind the iPod Touch/iPhone and Palm OS. We do not recommend purchasing a new Blackberrys at this time, but if you already own one, the Epocrates RX medical software is available for them.

Mobile Assistance

Having trouble getting your mobile device to “talk” to your home computer or network so you can install the required software? Bring your laptop, mobile device, and cables to get advice and assistance from the Library’s mobile support team. Or, contact us for a phone or chat consultation or to set up an appointment.

Have questions about your current mobile device and the requirement? Contact Ellen Ramsey at ellen@virginia.edu or 434-924-9962 or come to the Library for in-person assistance.