Starting your first shift in the hospital can be daunting.
As a new grad, I scrolled through TikTok trying to figure out what I needed to be prepared for my first shift as a nurse. Looking back on my time on the floor, I have narrowed down what is worth buying and what will collect crumbs in the bottom of your work bag. Here are my nursing must-haves:
Badge Buddies
- Mini Sharpies
From dating dressing to writing on gloves so you don’t forget something, these permanent markers will be your best friend. Lightweight mini Sharpies will last for months and are useful for almost every shift. These also make for great “stocking stuffers” if you are putting together a care package/gift for a nurse! - Stainless Steel Scissors
Don’t get defeated by ugly Coban rips. Cut through any situation with a good pair of stainless steel scissors that can cut through almost anything. - Black & Blue Pens
You will never have enough pens, but having a small one on your badge will be helpful when you’ve lost the other 20 you had! It’s always good to have a black or blue pen on you for any forms/paperwork patients have to sign. Other recommendations: Sharpie S-Gel & Pilot G2 pens.
Scrubs & Shoes
Find what works best for YOU.
If you can’t squat down in your scrub pants, they probably won’t be your first choice out the closet. Figuring out your preferred scrub & shoe style might be a trial and error process, but you will eventually find what works best for you and the patient population you are taking care of.
My go-to: Figs scrub bottoms, hospital t-shirt, compression socks, and closed-toe Crocs.
Discount Codes/Links:
- 20% off Figs Scrubs: https://fbuy.io/figs/nathaleeschoettlin
- 15% off Crocs: https://www.crocs.com/healthcare.html
Comfort is key. Don’t sacrifice functionality for aesthetics.
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