The 4th semester supplies (otoscope, etc.) are really expensive if you get the good stuff (Welch Allyn, Littmann). Should I buy it all in the U.S. or at school? Should I opt for the highbrow or student versions? Any recommendations on specifics?

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Brain surgeon to another: "Hey, this isn't rocket science".
Rocket scientist to another: "Hey, this isn't brain surgery".

I would suggest getting them all in the US because you can't find everything here in Belize.

As for the amount of money, do you want to spend alot? OR are you on a budget? If price isn't an object I would suggest getting the more expensive items because they will be more durable. But thats my opinion.

If you buy the better quality equipment, you can keep it for a long time. However, try ebay for some great bargains.

I bought my stuff from back home, but my classmates bought them locally. I paid almost 3 times what they did, but then we bought different brands. Some people have told me I should have bought local and waited until later to buy the good stuff, but I figured that if I have to make the investment at some point, now was as good a time as any. I'm really happy with my Littmann and Welch-Allyn; the only concern I have is for the otoscope. My set only came with 3 or 4 detachable ends, whereas the local otoscopes come with about a dozen. They have a different shape and won't fit my otoscope. Also, the otoscope and ophthalmoscope are 2 different instruments here, whereas mine is 1 handle with 2 attachments. If you're planning to buy the full instrument list, you may as well bring a tuning fork from back home; I don't think they sell them here.

One of our professors recommended a lightweight Littmann stethescope. He says the piece holding the bell and diaphragm isn't the traditional round shape; it's more ergonomically designed and easier to use. Also, a fellow classmate advised me not to waste money on the "medical" penlights; she says that the tiny flashlights are cheaper and will suffice. Hope this helps.

stethoscopes--if you don't want to keep buying a stethoscope every few years; Littmann stethoscopes are the best, and I have two of them (one of them was a gift); I love my littmann--why? the sound quality is the best and the stethoscope will last longest of all stethoscopes; I had two other stethoscopes besides my littmann, and after 1-2 years... no more; check out www.reddingmedical.com. they have a special for medical students... when you order the stethoscope, will get a coupon that you will get a accessory kit that includes a CD with the heart sounds and extra ear covers;

otoscope and opthalmoscope--it's okay to buy the international package; get each one with the extra covers; after you use the covers, soak in ETOH and boil to keep them clean; Welch-Allyn is the best quality;

flashlights--go to your local wal-mart, target, walgreens...whatever store that you are comfortable with, and buy the small flashlight or the set; they will last longer, and give better light; the penlights are useless..

Quality is everything... if you can hear or see, can't mis-diagnose...

Does the school require either? If not, any opinions on which is better?
There are numerous other options in WA kits; any recommendations, please.

__________________
Brain surgeon to another: "Hey, this isn't rocket science".
Rocket scientist to another: "Hey, this isn't brain surgery".