Welcome to Global Nurses Insights!
I congratulate you for successfully becoming a nurse and landing your first job. Its a huge achievement. Now as you are getting ready for your big day ,make sure you are all prepared.
When I became a nurse in Canada, I was quite happy and nervous at same time. Now its been a while since I have been in this profession.
I have listed few things below that from my experience, I think you must need as a nurse:
Stethoscope
Why you need a stethoscope?
As a nurse this is the tool you absolutely need. You will be using quite often each day during your assessments. for example while taking manual blood pressure, Cardiac, Abdominal and lung assessment. If you are working in acute care settings, some units stock basic stethoscope. Having a good quality stethoscope makes your assessments more efficient.
What I recommend?
Littman, one I have been using and my absolute favourite. I have been using it and have no issues so far. Click here to get yours:
watch-with second hand
Yes, you heard it right. I can’t imagine doing to work without my watch. It doesn’t have to be expensive or fancy. You just need a watch that is working and have second hand.
Why you need watch?
You will use be using it during your assessments, medication administration like IV therapy etc. Invest in something you can trust on.
Here are few recomendations:
You can have retractable one or wrist watch
Scrubs
Wearing something comfortable for when you are working for 12 hours really matters. I usually buy basic scrubs, still not putting my hard earned money toward expensive scrubs. You can defiantly go for expensive, aesthetic colors buts not absolute necessary. What matters is, how comfortable you are in them.
What I recommend?
I like scrubs with pockets, so I can store my report sheet, pens and watch etc.
Compression Stocking
Yes! If you love yourself, gift your self some good compression stockings. I bought them after almost working for a year and complaining of sore legs everyday. Light compression stocking keep blood flow in check while you are super focused on your day if not contraindicated by your MD.
What I recommend?
I have been using these ones for years, they do wear and tear with time but defiantly pays the price.
Shoes
I tried few over past few years but nothing felt good as HOOKA shoes. Yes, this is something I will not hesitate to invest my money in. Your feet will thank you, no compromise here. Thick sole and light weight really matters when you are on your feet for 12 hours.
Night light
I didn’t buy this one until a year, because I always felt it as unnecessary expense. If you working in setting where rooms are shared by more than one patient, I will recommend them. Best night lights for nurses are ones that are rechargeable, clips on and are hands free. Find the link below to buy one
Report sheets
I have free report sheets on my website. Click the link below to download these free printable report sheets in different formats
- Essential supplies you need as a nurse in 2025
- SBAR free report sheet
- Four patient free report sheet
- One patient free report sheet
Thing you can choose to have but are available on most of clinical units:https://a.co/d/8pjG7uQ
- Pens
- Markers
- highlighter
- Scissors
- Water bottle
- lip balm
- hand lotion
I hope you found it useful and have great shift and career.