Congratulations! 🎉 You've just embarked on one of the most transformative and exhilarating chapters of your life. You’ve been accepted to study medicine and are ready to start a life in the medical profession. Medicine is not just a degree, it’s a calling.
To prepare yourself, you must arm yourself with the best tools and equipment as you navigate the complex world of medicine.
While each medical course will give you a bespoke list of essentials, let's dive into some of the universal must-haves for budding doctors in the UK:
- Stethoscopes
It's not just an accessory – it's the very emblem of a medical professional.
Opt for quality. Brands like Littmann Classic III. Or for the tech-savvy, consider a digital stethoscope, connecting seamlessly to devices for recording, playback, and amplified sound.
For more information on all the different types of stethoscopes head over to our resource page to learn more about stethoscopes.
- Diagnostic Set
Embarking on a medical journey is both challenging and rewarding. As a medical student, your days are filled with lectures, hands-on experiences, and vital interactions with patients. But as you immerse yourself in this world, tools like diagnostic sets become invaluable.
A diagnostic set typically includes:
- Otoscope: It can diagnose ear infections, earwax buildup, and other issues related to the external auditory canal, tympanic membrane (eardrum), and middle ear.
- Ophthalmoscope: this device provides a clear view of the retina, the optic disc, blood vessels, and other internal structures of the eye, aiding in the diagnosis of various eye conditions and diseases.
- Reflex hammer: testing reflexes helps determine the integrity of the nervous system, particularly the central and peripheral portions.
From routine check-ups during clinical rotations to specialised patient assessments, having your own diagnostic set is crucial. Not only does it help in refining your skills, but it also ensures that you're prepared for any situation.
- Notebooks and Stationery
Carry notebooks, pens, highlighters, and other stationery items to take notes during lectures, lab sessions, and clinical placements. Go classic or quirky, but ensure you have enough space for notes, sketches, and those 'aha!' moments
- Medical Equipment Apps
There are many apps loaded with information for professionals and students alike.
Mediworld has hand-picked some of the best apps for students to use to kick-start your medical career; it’s like having a mentor right in your pocket!
- MDcal - a fantastic site that stores all the equations and algorithms needed for medical professionals and students alike.
- Medscape - keep up to date with the latest news in the medical space.
- Eponyms - the medical industry has many names for different drugs and diseases. It's easy to get lost! This handy app will help you revise each eponym.
- Brainscape- Medical students will revise so much that it will become second nature. So why not make your life easier? With Brainscape, you can make flashcards for any topic and start learning on the go.
- ePepid - this app has the most comprehensive drug database. You can check any allergens or drug-drug interactions that you should be aware of!
- Anatomy Models
Depending on the course curriculum, having a tactile model might be the trick to mastering complex anatomical structures. Use anatomical charts or a study skeleton, these learning aids are a great benefit when it comes to revision. Take your learning out of the books and into your hands!
And that wraps up our medical school essentials list. We hope you found something useful for your medical career. Good luck!
Mediworld specialises in supplying medical equipment to students and medical professionals. Should you need guidance or recommendations in equipping your medical arsenal, remember we're here to champion your journey every step of the way. Feel free to reach out anytime for unparalleled support as you transition into medicine.
August 2023