Hi Nursing Friends--
I've seen so many people blog or post videos on YouTube about this so I thought I'd give it a go! I am only going to include things you really need. A lot of people have endorsements to sell products, so just keep that in mind when you are referring to other posts.
I am a senior nursing student- so I've been through it all, I know exactly what you need!
I've seen so many people blog or post videos on YouTube about this so I thought I'd give it a go! I am only going to include things you really need. A lot of people have endorsements to sell products, so just keep that in mind when you are referring to other posts.
I am a senior nursing student- so I've been through it all, I know exactly what you need!
- A sturdy bag. It doesn't have to be nice or have a lot of pockets. I use a free tote bag that I got from a resort in Mexico. It fits everything I need! A backpack will do you just fine.
- Binders. Have a binder for each clinical in your bag, fill it with everything your class requires. BRING EXTRA PAPER!
- At least two black pens and one highlighter- because you'll need it.
- Chapstick- hospitals dry your lips out.
- A clip board. I bought a White Coat Clipboard and I really like it because you can fold it and it fits into your pocket- worth the splurge.
- Report sheets- print yourself many and keep them on hand. Make your own!
- A watch. I use a fob watch and just keep it in my pocket. It keeps my wrists clean and dry... Nobody likes C. Diff under their watch.
- Pen light. Most likely will be in your "clinical bag" which you have to purchase. If not find a cheap one on Amazon. Don't spend a lot of money on it, these things break so easily and the battery life sucks.
- Shears. This is a must... I don't know how many times I couldn't get a pill wrapper open or needed to cut something ASAP.
- Your stethoscope. Because, duh. You need to listen to those lung sounds, bowel sounds, and heart tones. Also, you'll probably want to buy a nice one for college, but don't buy a too nice one because you'll want another one when you graduate (lol). I also have some charms on mine.
- Your badge and a badge reel. The badge reel isn't really necessary but it is nice to accessorize.
- A purse insert to keep all of your clinical stuff from floating around in your bag, also protects your stethoscope.
- A Meg/Surg pocket guide or clinical companion. I suggest Medical-Surgical Nursing 9th ed. by Lewis.
- A nice big lunch box... Because you'll have a long day and will need at least one meal and a few snacks!
- A large water bottle... My absolute favorite and essential for my living is Nathan 1 Liter bottles.
That's All Folks!
Thanks for reading!
-K