It has often been said that the smartest people don’t know everything, they simply know how to access the information they need, when they need it. Check out these 5 outstanding medical apps that make my life easier, and will probably do the same for you.
- Critical-Medical Guide
This app is by far one of the most useful that I have discovered recently. It gives the user quick access to a wealth of critical care information. With laboratory and hemodynamic values, drug profiles, and even procedure checklists, this app is worth its weight in gold. Aside from providing the information, the app also provides users with a starting block of differentials for a number of abnormal value findings.
2.Basics of Emergency Medicine
This app is based on a small, pocket-sized, paperback publication from the Emergency Medicine Residents Association. The app is simple, and really helps build differential list when you are drawing a blank at 3AM. A great part about this app, is that if you absolutely hate apps, you can get an exact copy in print! The print edition does not contain the calculator features, obviously.
3.Differential Diagnosis Pocket
Just like Basics of EM, this app is also based on a printed pocket guide. DDx Pocket, however, is extensive in it’s content. While the app does not provide any sort of treatment algorithms or fancy calculators, it is filled to the brim with just about and differential you could think of. Simply search or select a pathology, and the app will provide you with a list of differentials. Bottom line, the app does exactly what it says.
4.web POISON CONTROL
This nifty little app was designed by the Poison Control Centers and is intended for the general public. It provides a step-by-step questionnaire to determine the likely toxicity of particular poisons based on the exposed’s age, gender, and amount of poison. The app also gives contact information for the poison control center in the users local area. Best of all the app is 100% FREE.
5.Your Own Custom App!
With so many tech savvy people running around today, there is a good possibility that a custom app with your state, local, or organization protocols. I found one for my state (North Carolina) which has made quite a big difference in the time it takes for me to reference specific information.
At the end of the day, I might offer this caveat; technology can fail. I would never recommend relying solely on something that is dependent on battery life or RF signal, but if you want to improve your productivity, and build your differentials a little faster, check these apps out- you’ll be surprised what they can do.
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Photo Credit: “Smartphone” by Christian Hornick is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0