When you are going in for your 12 hour shift, there are some must have items an able to make your shift go a little more smoothly. Here is my top 5 list:
1. HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE! I am just like many nurses out there. Always bringing that energy drink, the vente coffee from Starbucks or Dunkin. All for that little caffeine rush to help you along your shift, however, it is super important to make sure you're keeping yourself hydrated throughout your shift. Aside from making you lightheaded, dizzy, it can also make you feel very tired and make you not think as clearly. So re-energize yourself, make sure to drink in between seeing patients. Your kidneys will thank you for it! Below are some most popular travel mugs to keep your beverage cold (or hot)!
2. Reliable Stethoscope- It is essential to have a stethoscope while on shift an able to listen to breath sounds, bowel sounds, etc! There are so many brands out there (MDF, 3M Littmann, ADC, etc). The only stethoscope I have ever used and I LOVE is my Littmann Classic III stethoscope. I can hear everything perfectly. Have never had to change out anything on it or replace it. (Just make sure you tag your stethoscope so people know its yours). It just so happened a fellow co-worker and myself had the exact stethoscope and we only knew which was mine by the stethoscope charm I had on it. 😉 Eventually I will get myself the Littmann Cardiology (this one would be GREAT for all you nurses that work specifically in cardiology that you can hear heart murmurs really well). Once you have your stethoscope be sure to keep it locked up in your locker at the hospital. 👍🏻
GET YOUR LITTMANN III STETHOSCOPE HERE!
3. COMPRESSION SOCKS IS A MUST!
As a nurse, especially being on your feet for 12+ hours in a day, you need the comfort of socks that will help with leg soreness, edema, and possible plantar fasciitis to name a few of what can develop.
I highly recommend wearing a pair that are knee length that will provide gradual compression between 20 and 30 mmHg, which in return will enhance blood circulation. Grab a few pairs so you have enough for the week of shifts! They come in many sizes and colors for both men and women!
GRAB SOME COMPRESSIONS SOCKS HERE!
4. PROPER SHOES!
Just as important as the compression socks, shoes would be the next important item you will wear. Once again, being on your feet 12+ hour a day is GRUELING on your feet and your need to make sure you have proper football that will help with standing for long periods of time and not end up with horrible lower back pain. Also be sure to get a pair of shoe that fits your type of feet which may entail having to insert an insole. For example, I have flat feet, so I have to insert a totally different insole to help with the arch of my foot for better comfort. It may be trial and error to see which shoes work best for you! But make it one of the most important! Below are very popular brands of shoe and clogs!
5. HOSPITAL LUNCH BOX BAG-
Do I say more? You want to make sure you ALWAYS bring some snacks and lunch with you to shift. Cause lets be honest, 12+ hours you will ALWAYS be snacking away whenever you have some down time. This bag I recommend because it comes insulated, its large with pockets throughout, straps are adjustable, and its leak proof. :)
These are my tops items thus far I found myself I needed during a shift! I would love to hear what are MUST HAVE'S for you as well! Any questions or concerns, you can always comment below! OR reach out on IG @thenursekristen
THANKS EVERYONE!
KRISTEN BSN RN xoxo