Six (6) Essential Things for Nurse Wannabes
Yes! Finally, after years of waiting, you’re now about to enter nursing school and fulfill your dreams one by one. But as they say, nursing school is a battlefield and you can never go to war without being prepared. Here are some tips and essentials for nursing students and even nurses as you battle your way to become the angel of the sickroom.
Pens!
And make sure you have extras! In nursing, we always document. We always have to write things down, sign medication sheets and many more. Even when the hospital goes paperless, still you’ll need it to mark something, sign something, or make a note of something. You may use highlighters for your own use such as in marking up your papers, and a dry erase marker for the patient boards.
Comfortable Nursing Shoes
As a nurse, you’re on your feet at almost all the time. You’ll need lightweight, fitting and padded shoes for all those standing and running. Be sure that you feel comfortable with your shoes and that they feet well. Do not compromise comfort for fashion here.
Stethoscope
Make sure that this is something that you can use effectively considering that this is already a given when you’re in the nursing profession. A 5-Way design should serve you well. It has both the bell and diaphragm and can be interchanged for adults, children and infants.Add an ID tag to keep it from wandering if you lay it down, or someone asks to borrow it.
Bandage scissors
Yes, you must always have one as it may come in handy in certain situations. No use trying to waste time fumbling around looking for one, with one in your pocket, you can save a great deal of time.
Penlight
This comes in handy when it comes to neurological assessments.
A watch
Yes, a working watch with a second hand is absolutely essential, and of course you have to be able to read it easily. Also, one that is waterproof is a plus since you’re going to be washing your hands and wrists often.
Every nurse carries their supplies out of experience. What is stated above are just some of the most basic things each nurse must have when he/she’s a warrior in the healthcare battlefield. Again, don’t forget your bullets when going to war.
Sources:
- http://nursinglink.monster.com/benefits/articles/12744-top-10-pocket-essentials-for-nursing-and-clinicals
- http://thenursingsite.com/resources/Article-Index/essentials_for_students.pdf
- http://www.minoritynurse.com/article/essential-tips-first-year-nurses
Liane Clores, RN MAN
Currently an Intensive Care Unit nurse, pursuing a degree in Master of Arts in Nursing Major in Nursing Service Administration. Has been a contributor of Student Nurses Quarterly, Vox Populi, The Hillside Echo and the Voice of Nightingale publications. Other experience include: Medical-Surgical, Pediatric, Obstetric, Emergency and Recovery Room Nursing.
