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As a new nurse heading into a preceptorship, or beginning work at your local hospital, you are likely having anxiety over how to be best prepared for your new role. Understandably so! There’s a lot to learn about being a nurse, even after graduating and passing your NCLEX. From patient care, receiving report, taking orders from medical providers, etc. it can be overwhelming. However, all of this will come easily with time and practice. In order to get you in the right mindset, you must have the essential nursing gear required to make this transition go smoothly.
Being a new nurse, you may not know what nursing items you may actually need or find useful for your shift. But it is important that you arrive for your first day being well prepared to carrying out your duties. This guide is intended to provide you with an essentials list of nursing gear you will find useful.
The 10 Nursing Essentials
- Comfortable scrubs. This is a no-brainer but keep comfort and functionality at the forefront of your mind when purchasing scrubs. Be sure that you have scrubs that are both comfortable and will accommodate the level of activity you are required to do for your job.
- Stethoscope. Stethoscopes can be as costly as you make them. As they are absolutely necessary for your nursing assessments, purchase a set that will allow you to do your job sufficiently but without overspending. For example, a Littman cardiology stethoscope may be overkill in certain medical settings.
- Pen Light. This is essential for assessments.
- Clipboard. Foldable clipboards are the best. They allow you to stay organized and while not having to carry large items in and out of patient rooms. They just slip right into your scrub pockets.
- Trauma Shears. This is essential for assessments.
- Pens and sharpie markers. Sharpies are often used for placing dates on dressings, IV lines, transdermal patches, etc.
- Compression Socks. Every nurse needs compression socks with the amount of time we are standing and running around.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes. Be careful with your choice of shoes. Running shoes may seem like they are better suited for your long shifts, but you will find padded shoes allow you to maintain your comfort.
- Vitals equipment. This is essential for assessments.
- Watch. A watch with a timer is helpful when doing assessments and administering medications or treatment.
- Nursing bag. Staying organized with a nursing bag like the one linked below is very helpful for storing all of these essential nurse gear.
- Badge Reel. Your hospital may provide retractable reels. If not, purchase one. You will be using your badge to get into locked rooms and into computers. These badge reels are very helpful.
- Headbands. Keeping your hair up and tidy is a must during patient care.
- Water bottle. It is important for you to stay hydrated. Remember to drink a gallon of water a day (unless otherwise directed by your medical provider).
- Nursing Fanny Pack. These are a lifesaver. I personally dislike having overstuffed scrub pockets. Fanny packs can hold all of your flushes, IV start kits, gauze, etc. I have found them to be very helpful.
- Davis’s Drug Guide. As a new nurse you may consider keeping this in your nursing back. They may not be provided on your unit.
I’ve included links to the items mentioned on this essential nursing gear list- to assist you in finding each item.
What are some of your must-have nursing gear? Let me know in the comments below.