As a new nurse, ACLS certification might be one of your goals. This guide will introduce you to the certification and prepare you for the next steps.
*If you are looking for an American Heart Association (AHA) ACLS Certification, which includes a hands-on, practical skills assessment – an ACLS online exam cannot provide this. If you are required to have an AHA ACLS Certification, you will unfortunately not be able to utilize a 100% online ACLS Certification course. However, if you need ACLS certificialtion but don’t have to have AHA ACLS, or you use it for CEUs then online courses work fine.
What is ACLS Certification?
First, let’s start at the very beginning (a very nice place to start).
ACLS stands for Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support and it is used for cardiovascular emergencies.
The certification is what you will earn after you take a course that permits you the ability to practice ACLS in emergency situations. Providers that have this certification can go beyond Basic Life Support (BLS).
If you work in an ED or ICU, this certification is most likely a requirement. You may not be required to have this to land the job, but will probably need to obtain the certification within a certain amount of time. It does look great if you apply and already have it, but it’s not at all a must-have for new grads to attempt to complete between graduation and that first job.
If you’re on a nursing floor, however, you won’t necessarily need this. You will definitely need BLS but may not need ACLS. Basically, if you call a code – only ACLS certified nurses are able to administer medications without a physician order. Many facilities have protocols in which ICU and/or ED nurses respond to codes because of their ACLS capabilities and knowledge of caring for the unstable patient.
ACLS is basically an algorithm one follows during the emergency. The catch is that it’s tough to walk through an algorithm while someone is literally dying right before your eyes. Practice and being exposed to these situations frequently helps alleviate some code blue jitters.
Again, if you want to work in emergency or critical care situations, an ACLS certification will make you hireable and an active member of the team, able to jump in and help save lives.
How To Get ACLS Certified
If you are planning to work in emergency and critical care units, becoming ACLS certified will make you a more valuable team member. You will be able to literally help save lives.
So how do you get certified?
Chances are if you are trying to become ACLS certified, you are probably already BLS (basic life support) certified. If that is true, there will only be a few additional courses you’ll need to take and then pass the exam.
Your hospital or organization may provide this course to you, but you can also get it on your own.
Certification Requirements
To be certified, you have to take the courses. These usually last about two days and are pretty extensive. (I’ve been in a class with physicians who failed the exam at the end before!) Then you have to pass the exam. The test is both written and practical. (I’ve been in a class with physicians who failed the exam at the end before!)
This certification only lasts 2 years before you have to renew it again. The renewal course is much shorter than the original certification – so don’t let yours expire!
Where to Take ACLS Certification Courses and Exams
Ask your local hospital if they offer courses at a discount or if they will pay for any part of it. The American Heart Association also offers local courses and exams.
Some employers still require their employees to obtain an American Heart Association (AHA) ACLS Certification, which includes a hands-on, practical skills assessment – something ACLS online exams simply cannot provide. As a result, if you are required to have an AHA ACLS Certification, you will unfortunately not be able to utilize a 100% online ACLS Certification course. However, if you need ACLS certificialtion but don’t have to have AHA ACLS, or you use it for CEUs then online courses work fine.
If you are currently working full-time, consider finding an ACLS Certification course online. The best place for this is the ACLS Certification Institute. They are a highly respected organization and offer the flexibility of online courses.
You can take the course and the exams at home during your time off. It’s the best and most convenient way to become certified.
How much is ACLS Certification?
This depends on where you take the courses. Your hospital might offer to pay for some or all of the course fees.
If you choose to get certified by the ACLS Certification Institute, the course and exam are only $275 total. That’s a fantastically low price for something that could impact your career for years to come.
Recertification is only $175, which is a wonderfully low price. And don’t forget to check with your employer to see if they’ll cover the fee! Many hospitals have a professional development budget for their nursing staff, make sure you utilize if they do.
ACLS Pre-Test
If you are planning on getting certified, I highly suggest you find a pre-test and take it. See what you know already and what you don’t. Then, you can focus your studies on what you don’t already know.
You can find a few different pre-tests online and most of them are free of charge.
What is the difference between BLS and ACLS?
BLS stands for basic life support. When you are certified in basic life support you know CPR and how to use an AED (automatic external defibrillator), as well as how to help a choking victim.
But ACLS goes beyond that. It is extremely thorough. You’ll learn about intubation and IV medications, resuscitation procedures, and airway management.
It’s more complex and in-depth than BLS.
What is PALS?
PALS stands for Pediatric Advanced Life Support. This is another very strong certification you can add to your resume to make you more valuable to the team if you plan to work on the pediatric side of the hospital world.
This is very similar to ACLS except a child’s body is different and there are different dangers to consider.
Just like BLS and ACLS, this certification only lasts two years.
ACLS Certification: A Life-Saving Career Investment
Now that you know what ACLS certification is and how to become certified, go find a course. Any of these certifications listed above will enhance your skill sets as a nurse and give you confidence in your role. You will be able to know exactly what to do and have the certification that allows you to jump in and do it.
Think about these certifications as valuable investments into your career. But not just financial, but intelligent and logical ones too. You want to be able to help your patients as much as you can, and these certifications will empower you to do exactly that.
Save on ACLS Certification
As I already mentioned, if you choose to get certified by the ACLS Certification InstituteACLS Certification Institute, the course and exam are only $275 total! Right now FreshRN readers can save 20% off by using promo code FRESHRN20. Get your ACLS Certification Today!
Remember, if you need an American Heart Association (AHA) ACLS Certification, which includes a hands-on, practical skills assessment – an ACLS online exam cannot provide this. As a result, if you are required to have an AHA ACLS Certification, you will unfortunately not be able to utilize a 100% online ACLS Certification course. However, if you need ACLS certificialtion but don’t have to have AHA ACLS, or you use it for CEUs then online courses work fine.
What are the perfect gifts for nurses? This list is everything you need to know about finding a thoughtful gift he or she will really love. Are you a nurse or a nursing student? Treat yourself to something on this list!
Ultimate List of Gifts for Nurses
We’ve outlined some of the best gifts for nurses in this comparison table to make it easier to find the one that is right for you. You can click “Read More” on any of the gifts in the table to jump to the section in this article outlining more information about it. Or, you can click the “Buy it Now” button to pick it up immediately.
Do you know someone that is about to graduate nursing school? Or maybe you have a birthday coming up for your nurse friend? This list is about to make your gift-buying job easier than passing morning meds to a bunch of walkie-talkies with only oral meds. Holler!
There are things on this list that nurses use and appreciate. As an experienced nurse myself, I’ve tried a lot of different things and spoken with many other nurses about products they use and love. They are all on this list!
Compression socks are incredibly necessary -, especially for long shifts. FIGS has high-quality compression socks that also look great. I’ve tried so many different socks over the last 10 years and these are by far my favorite.
Being Mortal by Atul Gawande is a life-changing book. Death is a real part of our jobs as nurse – especially those of us working in high acutities areas. This book is uplifting, encouraging, and straightforward – all at the same time. Multiple nurse friends recommended this book to me, and it was so powerful that one healthcare organization that I worked in bought a copy for every employee. How crazy is that!? I get why they did it though it’s outstanding.
Yes! Treat yourself to some luxuriously soft pajamas! After working your tail off, put on some of the comfiest comfy pants and snuggle up for some Netflix (HAVE YOU SEEN THE TED BUNDY TAPES?), scroll through your phone, and unwind. FIGS has the softest knit loungewear you’ve ever felt.
If you or your loved one is a new nurse, check out my guidebook specifically for the nursing student and newbie nurse: Anatomy of a Super Nurse: the Ultimate Guide to Becoming Nursey. I’ve got time management tips, prioritization, and delegation tips. Not sure how to call a doctor? I’ve got you. I interviewed a physician and discussed some really crucial tips to help you learn how to confidently communicate with physicians. Learn all the practical stuff they don’t teach you in school.
No, not Tumblr – a tumbler! Every single nurse needs their own tumbler. You have to stay hydrated on long shifts! And whether you prefer ice water or hot coffee, this tumbler is insulated so it keeps things both hot and cold.
After you get that perfect tumbler, you’ll probably want to jazz it up. I suggest this personalized decal. It’s vinyl, so it will last a long time. Plus, you can mark your tumbler and everyone will know it is yours!
Block out curtains are helpful for night-shifters, but they never block ALL of the light. The secret? Use a good sleep mask in addition to the blackout curtains to ensure your sleep environment is as dark as possible. Invest in a high-quality sleep mask for those day-sleeps.
Do you know a nurse that is going to be working on a cardiac unit or with cardiac patients? Then this course is extremely valuable. It’s made for new nurses, so the information is designed in a way to prioritize the need-to-know information (like where does a mediastinal chest tube actually drain? What’s a wedge resection? What should I do now that my patient is in atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response?) to help you get the most out of orientation.
Essential oils are the natural way to help your mind and body relax after a stressful shift. Add some good relaxing oils to a cool, dark room with a warm and comfy bed, and your sleep hygiene is stellar. Night shifters will appreciate any help to decompress and drift off to sleep. This set is from a really solid company (which is very important in purchasing oils) and has a little bit of everything. Use the whole set as part of your wind-down bedtime routine. Take a relaxing bath, smooth on the lotion, diffuse the outstanding sleep blend, and spray your pillow and sheets as you transition from your high-stress work environment to your calm and relaxing bedroom.
If you do choose to buy some essential oils, I recommend this diffuser. It is beautiful – fitting in with your home decor naturally. It also automatically turns off, which is a plus. I’ve known a few people who have this exact one and they all really enjoy it. Plus it’s on Amazon – hello Prime shipping!
This is a free app, but as a gift, give the premium version. Daylio is an app that prompts you once a day to just say how your day went (rad, good, meh, bad, awful). You can also add notes about your day.
This is so important for nurses because it’s easy to lose perspective and after a few bad shifts, it can feel like every day is bad. Keeping track helps you maintain perspective and not get lost in the exhausting or challenging days. I have a nightly reminder at 2130 to enter how my day was. It’s as fast as just marking my overall thought of the day (rad, good, meh, bad, awful) and adding as much detail as I want, so I can look back at what happened and how I felt. I can use icons (work, family time, friends, exercise, a good meal, etc.) or write them out. Then take a look at the mood tracking and get a sense of overall how your week, month, etc. look from a more collective perspective.
Enjoy the art of balancing work and life with a paper planner. Looking at and creating a to-do list isn’t always fun, but it’s great when you can look at something clean, sleek and organized when you do. Erin Condren or Happy Planner are really great options. If you have to keep track of bills, you might as well make it look pretty!
Fitness trackers are actually pretty helpful. You can see how much you do in a shift and get a better perspective. For those of you who count macronutrients and plan workouts, this information is particularly valuable!
These things are outstanding. I know they seem a bit expensive, but if you’re a student they are so valuable. Most instructors won’t let you pull out your phone to look things up. Instead of carrying pocket textbooks around (yea, that sucks) use these color laminated cards. Pick out the ones you’ll need for that particular clinical and stick them in your pocket. These are valuable even for experienced nurses – the lab and pharmacology ones in particular. They are great quick references for the many labs and meds you must know to be successful in ICU right out of school.
These are great. I’ve worn one on my badge for years. I never have to look around for a penlight because it’s always on my badge. Plus, it’s not heavy so it doesn’t weigh my badge down. Many times I’ve gone in to see a neuro patient with a neurosurgeon or neurologist, and they start patting down their own pockets to try to find a penlight to do a pupillary assessment, and I just slyly hand them my badge and look so prepared. (Don’t mind me… rock star nurse over here…) Oh, and did I mention – they’re cheap and have Amazon Prime? Ok, sold.
My favorite badge reels, by far, over the last decade of health care experience are from Badge Blooms. The shop is on Etsy (follow them on Facebook for intermittent coupon codes!) and is owned by a nurse! My favorite is the essential oil diffuser. It truly works. I saturate the pad with some grapefruit, orange, and lemon to wear throughout the shift. It’s near my face (but not too close) so I can get a light scent throughout the day. It’s not strong enough for patients to pick up on it at all. Added bonus – if I find myself in a particularly stinky situation, I just sniff it directly to clear out the old nostrils. Highly endorse the essential oil one!
A comfortable, well-fitting pair of scrubs is worth every single dime. Nurses, treat yo self to scrubs that will work with you all shift long. Now, if you are buying this as a gift for someone else, just give them a gift card to FIGS. Don’t try to guess sizes or try to meet scrub color requirements
I have to brag – I have the best coffee pot. Now, it’s a little expensive, but we love it and it lasts. We’ve had ours for about 6 months and my friend has had hers for 5 years, both with zero issues. We buy whole bean coffee and grind it in the maker right before brewing.
It. Tastes. Amazing.
Get a great bag of whole bean coffee; add the beans. Set the timer for when you need it to go off before you leave for your shift, add your water, and let it make itself. Toss it in a tumbler and enjoy outstanding hot coffee on your way to work that will stay warm and delicious even beyond your first med pass.
I’m drinking a cup from my coffee pot right now guys… it’s so, so good.
**sips happily**
Cheers!
Nurses Gifts
Call me crazy, but I think those funny t-shirts (stay safe at night and sleep with a nurse!) and wine glasses for nurses (nurses call the shots!) are overdone. Chances are if you’re buying a gift for a nurse – they probably already have one. Go with a more innovative approach and get something that they’ll not only like receiving, but that will make their nurse life easier and more enjoyable.
Fill up your shopping cart with these 7 nursing books. They are all you need to help you become the best nurse you can be.
Nursing Books
We’ve outlined some of the best nursing books in this comparison table to make it easier to find the one that is right for you. You can click “Read More” on any of the books in the table to jump to the section in this article outlining more information about it. Or, you can click the “Buy from Amazon.com” button to pick it up immediately.
These books are way more than just how to remember meds or policies. They are also filled with more than just nurse stories.
I hand-picked each of these books because they are focused on holistic self-care. How can we possibly care for everyone else if we aren’t taking care of ourselves first?
Put these on your must-read list. Each one has something unique to offer. The information in these books is helpful in acclimating to the lifestyle of being a nurse, which requires mindfulness, self-compassion, productivity, actively preventing weight gain, as well as identifying with nurse stories.
Take some me-time and read through these books. They will help you become a more centered, healthy, and confident person – which will make you a better nurse.
These aren’t in any particular order. I couldn’t prioritize them, they all have something different and vital to offer.
Let’s start the list with the Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End by Atul Gawande. This is a book that explores the philosophy of dealing with the end of life. It will really get you thinking and stretch you beyond your comfort zone.
What Its About
Atul Gawande is not only a best-selling author but a surgeon as well. In this book, he explores how those in the medical profession treat the end of life. Often people try to extend life – sometimes at the detriment of the sufferer. Other times, practices like pinning the elderly to the bed to keep them safe – cause the end of their life to be full of isolation and pain.
Gawande explores different models for helping the sick and dependent elderly. He writes about the varieties of hospice care to show that a patient’s last days can actually be rich and dignified.
Why You Should Read It
As nurses, we are focused on healing and preventing death – and rightfully so. However, it is so important to think about what we believe about the end of life and how to help people experience it in an as dignified and peaceful way as possible.
This book has both solid research and heart-moving storytelling that make it a compelling read.
The next book on the list is one I wrote for all the new nurses that are feeling overwhelmed or just want a few tips.
What Its About
The Ultimate Guide to Becoming Nursey is super easy to read over and over again. It has practical tips for becoming a nurse and is used by hospitals and nursing schools all over the country. The term “ultimate guide” really is spot on. This book is a new nurse’s best friend. It covers everything you need to know as you transition from stressed-out student to a nursing professional.
Why You Should Read It
I wrote this book with the American Nurses Association as a valuable tool for new nurses. In fact, there is even an entire chapter dedicated to surviving nursing school, so buy this while you are still in school.
Everything you need to know as a nurse – codes, procedures, even time management – is covered in my book. It will be your best friend. If you want more, be sure to check out my other books.
This book outlines all the physical and emotional tolls nurses experience from caring for others nonstop. Then, it shares actionable steps for processing these traumas and nurturing ourselves so we have more to give.
Why You Should Read It
Every single nurse – no matter where they work – will experience some sort of trauma. It isn’t something people admit or talk enough about. All nurses need this book so they can understand how to process emotional trauma. Arm yourself with valuable mental tools you can use before you are emotionally miserable.
What is a vulnerability and why is it important in the life of a nurse? In her book, Brené Brown outlines the power of vulnerability based on 12 years of research. With compassion and inspiration, she shows you how to harness the power of vulnerability and make it work for you in big ways.
Why You Should Read It
All nurses have to have those tough conversations – either with other nurses or with patients and family members. This book gives you the courage to be vulnerable and not be afraid of difficult situations. You’ll learn a lot about yourself and how to stop being afraid to be real and honest.
Another nursing book you need to have on your bookshelf is Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Yourself by Dr. Kristin Neff. Stop beating yourself up and leave insecurity in high school where it belongs. This book is powerful!
Full of expert advice on how to limit self-criticism and offset its negative effects, enabling you to achieve your highest potential and a more contented, fulfilled life. Psychologists are turning away from an emphasis on self-esteem and moving toward self-compassion in the treatment of their patients. This book offers exercises and action plans for dealing with every emotionally debilitating struggle, be it parenting, weight loss, or any of the numerous trials of everyday living.
Why You Should Read It
This book is useful for anyone in any field – not just nurses. But how many times as a nurse do we give compassion to everyone else, except ourselves? We are so critical of ourselves, and this book takes you through techniques and new ways of thinking that will allow you to be gentle and kind to yourself. It provides a structured way to prevent burnout and maximize your professional enjoyment.
I suggest investing in the workbook too. It breaks down the points in the book into goals and steps you can take immediately.
No matter how many hours you put into your job, you need this book for your days off. Getting Things Done by David Allen teaches you how to not be lazy on your days off – even though it is incredibly tempting.
What Its About
David Allen teaches one main theme in this book: our productivity is directly proportional to our ability to relax. His methods have helped tens of thousands of people organize their thoughts and achieve their potential.
Why You Should Read It
Our personal lives shouldn’t suffer just because we give so much to our profession. As enjoyable as it might be to let everything go on our days off, it will all catch up to us eventually.
Read this book so you can learn how to accomplish everything on your lists – both at home and at work.
Make your health and your body a priority. If you have struggled with other diets or weight loss things before, read Fat Loss Forever – How to Lose Fat and Keep It Off by Layne Norton and Peter Baker.
What Its About
This isn’t a diet, this teaches you about nutrition and how to fuel your body efficiently. It demonstrates ways to count micronutrients and how to change your lifestyle so you can have a sustainable way to eat and live.
Why You Should Read It
You should read this book because it works – I and my husband are proof. My husband lost 25 pounds and I lost 14 pounds after a year of not being able to get back to my pre-baby weight. As nurses, our health has a direct impact on our jobs. Discover how to get to a healthy weight so you look and feel your best.
Our job as a nurse is a huge responsibility and privilege. We get to make a real difference in this world. But in all your work, don’t forget to keep yourself a priority. Each of these books was handpicked because they help you become a better nurse by growing into a stronger, more confident person.
When I become a nurse, I knew that it would entail long hours of standing and lots and lots of walking. Even with the best nursing gear, there was something missing from my uniform. Compression socks! As a nurse, we learn all about compression hose and socks for post-op patients to help prevent blood clots and to promote circulation. These same tools could help my poor aching feet. But there are hundreds of different kinds of compression socks. How do you know which are the best compression socks for nurses?
FIGS Compression Socks
They’re from FIGS! FIGS compression socks offer 20-30 mmHg compression, are long enough and sturdy enough to stay put for 12-hours, and I’ve washed them quite a few times since I got them a few months ago and they’ve withstood the washings and have no faded. They come in the pictured cranium pink, grey pills, or a slick black and grey.
FIGS compression socks offer 20-30 mmHg compression, are long enough and sturdy enough to stay put for 12-hours, and I’ve washed them quite a few times since I got them a few months ago and they’ve withstood the washings and have no faded. They come in so many different colors and styles, you are sure to find a pair that speaks to you.
The Cherokee True Support is my second favorite, they’re not as durable or offer as much support but are a good purchase for the price. They provide 12 mmHg compression. The price may vary depending on where you get them, but they’re about $10. If you get them at Lydia’s Uniforms, they’re usually $7.99! If you are looking for a more reasonably priced compression sock, then look no further.
If you’re looking for thicker socks to help keep you warmer this winter, Nabee Socks are a great option. They’re a little shorter than the Cherokee on me. But they provide 15-20 mmHg compression. They were a bit too short for me and my long legs, but are a great option for nurses with shorter legs.
So there you have my top three picks for the best compression socks for nurses. Do you have another pair that you love? I’d love to hear about them in the comments?
I’m a tall woman. At almost 6 feet tall, I often find it challenging to find scrub tops that fit correctly. And I know I am not alone in this. So I decided to put together a list of the best tall scrubs for women. I’ve already shared my Nurse Gear post but I wanted to focus on just tall scrubs for women in this post.
Hands down, my favorite scrub tops is Figs. Their One-Pocket Scrub top is stylish, fitted, and I don’t have to wear a shirt under it. It moves with me while still covering everything that needs to be covered. I also feel like I look pretty fly in them, NBD. However, they’re not cheap. I do believe are worth the investment. I highly recommend getting on their email list because they frequently email out discount codes. They also have a student program, where you get 20% off. These are lean and longer than others.
Comfy scrubs that actually fit well? Yes, please. Tried out Jockey Scrubs and I am impressed! I’m kind of big on having scrubs that fit me well because I think that looks professional. Too tight and it’s inappropriate, too loose and it’s sloppy. These Jockey Scrubs hit that balance perfectly. I didn’t even need an undershirt because the top was long, yet form-fitting enough for me. Score. This might be the longest and slimmest scrub top listed, although Figs is close.
Cherokee Infinity is my third choice for scrubs for tall women. They fit well and move with me. I do like to add an undershirt but that is not because I need it. I find they get really hot when you run around. I had a few shifts where we had codes and I was sweating and running around and noticed at the end of the day that my skin was irritated. I feel like I look great in them, but I realized I am not a huge dry fit fan for 12-hours. The undershirt helps to avoid any skin irritation.
I’ve worn Grey’s quite a bit in the past and they’re in my regular rotation. They’re by far the softest and snuggliest. However, if you sweat in them they get a bit heavy. I’ve had to get a size larger than usual in the tops just so they fit my longer torso, and because of that, they’re not as form fitting. They’re available at a ton of places, even the tall pants. The Grey’s do have a slightly higher price-point. I have a long torso, therefore the tops are a little short on me and I need to wear a tank top underneath. They can be kind of heavy.
So, you’re getting ready to graduate nursing school and are looking around for some free and paid NCLEX® questionnaires. Let’s be real, everyone would like to try to get as many practice test questions as possible, which typically consists of checking out not one, but multiple free and paid NCLEX® question banks to maximize your dollar and time.
What to look for in NCLEX® Questionnaires
Getting access to NCLEX® questions is helpful, but there’s more to it than that. You don’t just want to know the right answer, you want to know the rationale so you can learn why that’s the right answer. Even better, if they can tell you the level of difficulty and how it stacks up against the rest of their question bank, that’s amazing.
Remember, the NCLEX® isn’t a normal test… it’s a computerized adaptive test (CAT). What does that mean? Here’s a great explanation from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (the people who write the test!) about what a CAT really means. So, just getting a bank of multiple choice questions isn’t going to cut it. You need to know not only the right answer, but the rationale and how difficult the question is, as well as questions with alternate formats. You also don’t want to get the same questions over and over, so you need a large bank of question (1,500+).
What’s best is if you can find a question bank that also has a content review, so if you got a question wrong and need more information than the rationale supplies, you’ve got resources to dive deeper into. More things to look for are programs actually written by nurses, ones that provide the ability for you to give feedback on a question, as well as the ability to to purchase more. The absolute best if if you can find one that has a money-back guarantee if you end up not passing the NCLEX®.
If you want a comprehensive, quality NCLEX® questions and review, you are looking at dropping at least a few hundred dollars. It’s expensive, but not passing the first time around can cost on average $10K – $20K in lost wages, fees, and study costs.
Look for the following aspects of quality NCLEX® questionnaires:
A large bank of questions
At least over 1,500 but you may want to look for one with substantially more because if you’re diligent in taking practice questions, you’ll go through 1,500 faster than you realize
Rationales
Questions with alternate formats
All of the possible alternate format question that may appear on the exam include select all that apply, hot spots, fill in the blanks, ordered response, audio options, graphic options
Difficulty level of the question
Content review
Nurses actually writing the content/questions
Able to use features on mobile
This would be a bonus, not a requirement – in my opinion
The ability to provide feedback
This would be a bonus, not a requirement
The ability to take a simulation exam
This wouldn’t provide the answers immediately, but attempt to simulate the NCLEX® to assess your level of readiness
Test.com is simply 23 free NCLEX® prep questions with a buy-up option to their course. You don’t have to register to get the correct answers, but it’s just a few. The buy up is to their review with 800 questions, which is written by nurses, contains a money-back guarantee, mobile-enabled, a create-your-own flashcards, as well as simulation exam capabilities. It’s probably one of the cheapest, if not the cheapest programs out there.
I am a big fan of the way Khan Academy teaches. They utilize short videos that are packed with high-value information. Also, they’re free! The NCLEX® prep section has over 600 YouTube videos that are around 10 minutes each. They are mostly taught by physicians, however, because they’re going into the pathophysiology behind things and not actual nursing care. Essentially, you’re missing a massive part of the test content. While they do have some NCLEX® prep questions, it’s only 86 total. You do not have to register to get access to them.
My thoughts – this would be a good resource for reviewing pathophysiological content that is hard to grasp and just to have access to 86 free questions… but it should by no means be your only review. Since their focus is on patho, there are no nursing topics which comprise major aspects of the exam. I’d do the 86 questions, then use a handful of videos if needed.
Nurse Labs is arguably the largest database of free NCLEX® prep questions at over 3,500. You don’t have to give them your email, they’re broken up into different categories, and they have different modes you can take them in (exam, practice, text). They have some free study guides which accompany content. You are told which answers are correct and it seems like (sorry I didn’t take all 3,500+ questions to know for sure!) there’s a rationale most of the time, but not always. The way it is organized isn’t the best, but what can you expect when you’re getting a ton of free questions?
My thoughts – this is a ton of free NCLEX® prep questions. I feel like the way the site is organized, it’s hard to keep yourself organized. As far as I could tell, there were no alternative format questions or an option to purchase a full review. While there is some content review, you do have to look for it. Also, one of my nurse red-flags went up when looking into the site… their “about” page is pretty non-descript. I cannot tell who writes these questions or who owns this company, which is a little concerning to me. The way I would approach this is I would purchase an NCLEX® review and use that as my primary question bank, then I would only use the Nurse Labs one if I went through all of those questions.
If you do all three of these, you’ll have 3,609 free NCLEX® practice questions.
Please note, UWorld, Hurst, Kaplan and NRSNG all offer a free set of sample questions – but they are all discussed in the paid section!
Paid NCLEX® Questionnaires
Kaplan
Kaplan is quite well know. They have different options for reviews like just an adaptive practice test (cheapest), a self-paced online course, a live online course, and an in-person course.
They have a 3,400 question bank which includes alternate format items, content review, workbook, simulation NCLEX®, as well as a money-back guarantee. They teach a “decision tree” which helps you think through each question in a systematic format. Their price points range from $129 – $500. Some schools will include this review within your tuition. You can also simply purchase their question bank.
NRSNG Academyhas an adaptive NCLEX® simulator (“SIMCLEX”), a question bank of 3,500 questions with the ability to provide feedback and see the difficulty rank, 500+ flashcards, image and audio database, a test-taking course, and 10 concise content courses, is entirely available on mobile, a private Facebook group for support, and lifetime access to content after the subscription is complete (9 months). Their pricing structure is a bit different, in that you pay a monthly fee for 9 months. They also have a 200% money-back guarantee, so if you don’t pass the NCLEX® while using their resources, they’ll refund your money and pay you that same amount as well.
What is cool about this is you can get it when you start nursing school, and it will be valuable throughout school, during the NCLEX®, and after. Also, if you only need it for a few months, it’s significantly cheaper than the other NCLEX® review options. They also have the option of simply purchasing their question bank. Right now you can get a 7 day trial for only $1.
Hurst has 3 different options of an in-person review, a live online review, or an online course. They have a question bank of 1,000 questions, a workbook, test simulator, 4 125-question prep tests, an online coach, and a money-back guarantee. If you buy the in-person review, you are able to attend as many in-person events as you’d like.
Board Vitalshas a question bank of 4,100 questions with rationales and alternative formats, an exam blueprint, computer adaptive exams,
Interestingly enough, with each purchase they donate a vaccination to a child in need. Two of their 4 plans have a money-back guarantee. I personally know people who have tried all of the other products mentioned, but don’t know anyone who has used this product.
NCSBN (National Counsel of State Boards of Nursing)
This is an NCLEX® prep program from the same company who actually write the test. Their question bank has 3,100 questions, a content review, quizzes, capable of being used on mobile, and an Ask the Instructor feature. I somewhat stumbled upon this during researching these options, so I’m not very familiar with it or know anyone who has used it. But, given that it comes from the same company that writes the test, I’d say it’s safe to assume it’s quite reputable. They also have study plans, which are nice to have structured for you.
UWorld is another popular choice. While it’s test bank is 1,950 questions, they also have two 75-question self-assessments, are mobile-ready, and I’ve heard that their rationales are superior to some others NCLEX® reviews. I actually did a more comprehensive review of this system on the blog already! Click here to check it out. I think this is a good option or someone who just needs test question practice and not content review, because you will not get that with UWorld. Their pricing structure is different than some of the others as well, since they go by month rather than one large purchase.
Whatever program you pick, it’s important to do what’s best for you, your learning style and needs, and budget. Some people just want a content review, some just want practice questions, some want both. There’s no shame in your NCLEX® prep game, do what you need to do to pass!
I’ve been a nurse since 2010 and tried out many different brands of scrubs, stethoscopes, shoes, penlights, NCLEX review material, apps, bags, and more and more and more… I’ve learned which brands to avoid and which are awesome. I’d like to share my experience with you guys so that you don’t waste all the money I have over the years and can get what works. Let’s go over the answer to the question many new nurses are asking: what kind of stuff does a nurse need?
My shopping list of 10 must-buys when you become a nurse
Good scrubs – that fit well and are in the appropriate color(s) for your facility/school (I try to have at least 3 sets) – I also go over underscrubs and lab coats
Good shoes – able to be cleaned easily if bodily fluids come into contact with them and you can stand in them for 12+ hours (1 everyday amazing pair, and a back up not great pair just in case)
Compression socks – ones that’ll stay up for 12+ hours and won’t be too loose or too tight (it’s helpful to have 2-3 sets)
Stethoscope – don’t get the cheapest, or the most expensive
Badge reels – a solid one that will last plus a few back ups
Pen light – not too dark, not too light and one you won’t lose!
Small bag / zipper pouch – where you can stash your phone, lip balm, snack, Sharpies, etc. on the unit so you don’t weigh your pockets down
Big bag – to carry to and from the hospital with room to store everything
Water bottle – one that will keep your drink cold (or hot) for hours on end
Alright, here we go!
Recommended Nursing Scrubs
I believe nurses should wear scrubs that fit them, but aren’t too tight and aren’t too lose. Too tight and it’s inappropriate… too loose and you look sloppy and unkept. It’s taken me a while to find a few brands that fit my body with this balance. I am 6 ft tall and about 165 lbs. My torso and legs are long, so standard sizes don’t usually fit me well. Needless to say, I’ve tried a lot.
Things I care about with scrubs: I want a yoga-pant waist band (so my back end doesn’t fall out when I’m trying to plug something into the wall, perform CPR, or whatever), ones that will last and are durable through many washings, comfortable yet professional, wrinkle and odor-resistant (antimicrobial is a plus but not requirement), and ones that fit me well (long enough in the legs and torso).
I will gladly spend more if they last longer and fit well.
The list of scrubs I’ve tried includes: Cherokee Workwear, Code Happy, Cherokee Infinity, Dickies, Uniform Advantage Butter-Soft, Braco, Greys Anatomy, and FIGS. I have personally worn them at work, while taking care of patients.
Below are my top 4 scrub brands!
#1 Favorite Scrubs – FIGS Scrubs
These are by far my favorite. They last, are comfortable, soft, and mechanically sound. I also feel like I look pretty fly in them, NBD. However, they’re not cheap. I do believe are worth the investment. I also have a few other products of theirs (socks + jacket) that I wear all the time. I highly recommend getting on their email list because they frequently email out discount codes. They also have a student program, where you get 20% off.
Pros – really high quality, comes in tall, looks really sharp, comfortable, whenever you purchase a set they donate a set to a healthcare worker in need, great waistband, antimicrobial, fluid-resistant, odor-resistant, comfy yet durable
Cons – higher price point, no badge clip, only available on their website
Pros – lightweight, antimicrobial, yoga-pant waist band, tall options, stretchy sides that move with you, good price point
Cons – they get really hot when you run around. I had a few shifts where we had codes and I was sweating and running around and noticed at the end of the day that my skin was irritated. I feel like I look great in them, but I realized I am not a huge dry fit fan for 12-hours.
Me in the Infinity Antimicrobial Round Neck Scrub Top + Matching Low Rise Slim-Fit Scrub Pants
#4 Favorite Scrubs – Greys Anatomy Scrubs
I’ve worn these quite a bit in the past and they’re in my regular rotation. They’re by far the softest and snuggliest. However, if you sweat in them they get a bit heavy. I’ve had to get a size larger than usual in the tops just so they fit my longer torso, and because of that they’re not as formfitting.
Pros – They are extremely soft and snuggly. I mean really soft. They come in talls and the pants fit me well, which is a major plus of mine. They’re available at a ton of places, even the tall pants.
Cons – They are a slightly higher price-point. I have a long torso, therefore the tops are a little short on me and I need to wear a tank top underneath. They can be kind of heavy. No yoga-pant waist band.
Every single shift I wear a shirt under my scrubs. I now wear a long sleeve one and typically don’t wear a jacket. I have two favorite underscrub shirts.
My second favorite is the Cherokee Infinity Long Sleeve Knit Underscrub Tee. I’m almost 6 feet tall and ave really long arms and this shirt and sleeves are incredibly long so it fits me well. The only thing downside is that I’ve had them for a while and they’re getting a bit worn, and getting even longer and starting to look a bit slouchy.
A few mentionedCherokeeas being the cheapest, but not necessarily the best quality-wise.
And (you know this is coming…) of course, FIGS. Again, most expensive but definitely the sharpest and highest quality. I have one ready to go for my MSN practicum and it is outstanding.
Not everyone is going to need a lab coat. You may need one for nursing school, or you may need one for your particular nursing role. However, if you are going to work in acute care at the bedside, most likely you will not need a lab coat for every day work. Make sure you know you need one before purchasing.
Nurse shoes
Ok I’ve tried a ton of shoes. Nikes, New Balance, Crocs, Dansko, KSwiss… I think there’s more? I’m really particular about my shoes. I’ve tried tennis shoes/sneakers, which are nice but only last me a few months before my shins start to ache… and they’re not the easiest to clean. Buying a fresh pair of kicks every 6 months got pretty expensive pretty quickly. I loved regular Danskos, but they were too tall and I rolled my ankle once a week it seemed like.
They’re cheaper, with a smaller heel, and fit a bit more snug than the originals.
I. love. these.
I’m never wearing another shoe. I don’t have any others to recommend. These are it, guys.
I’ve since switched to the plain black Work Wonders because they go with my blue scrubs better – but they’re both amazing (if you scroll up to my full length picture in grey scrubs, you can see the black ones on). They have that Dansko-nurse feel to them, but are just more functional because of the shorter heel (I can run to codes or up/down stairs without breaking an ankle) and snugger fit.
So, normally I would recommend more shoes… but I don’t want to. The only ones that compare to these, in my nurse mind, are regular Danskos. They have a higher heel, fit a little more loosely, and are a bit more expensive. Click here to check them out (with free shipping)!
Compression socks
I have tried out many compression socks over the years. And I have a new favorite!
They’re from FIGS! FIGS compression socks offer 20-30 mmHg compression, are long enough and sturdy enough to stay put for 12-hours, and I’ve washed them quite a few times since I got them a few months ago and they’ve withstood the washings and have no faded. They come in the pictured cranium pink, grey pills, or a slick black and grey.
My second favorite are Cherokee True Support are my second favorite, they’re not as durable or offer as much support but are a good purchase for the pice. They provide 12 mmHg compression. The price may vary depending on where you get them, but they’re about $10. If you get them at Lydia’s Uniforms, they’re usually $7.99.
If you’re looking for thicker socks, Nabee Socks are a great option. They’re a little shorter than the Cherokee and provide 15-20 mmHg compression. They were bit too short for me, but are a great option.
(Bonus points: the CEO of the company is a nurse!)
Nurse pro-tip: do not purchase compression sleeves for nurses. While they do provide support and look sharp, they are not made for 12-hour shifts on your feet and do not provide appropriate venous return. They kind of cut off at the ankle and fluid can get trapped down there and you can easily acquire the swelling you were trying to prevent. They are designed for running for a shorter period of time, not for standing and walking for hours on end.
Stethoscopes
My favorite scopes are from MDF. They’re more affordable than Littmann and have really great sound quality. For around $50 you can get a really high quality scope(pictured). They are a tad heavy, but I think their sound quality is outstanding… especially at that price point.
They also have a nice rose gold one that looks really sharp, but is at slightly a higher price point ($80).
Littmann is also a good option, but can become quite expensive. If you’re in school, I would get a $50 MDF scope. I say this because maybe when you graduate, you want to work in pediatrics or the neonatal intensive care unit… and you’d need a different scope for that. Or, maybe you are going to work in a pulmonary critical care unit and you need a really high quality digital one. When you’re in school, you’re not sure what you’ll do – therefore, get a quality scope that works for most patients to get through school, then reevaluate.
Nurse pro-tip: The $20 scopes are not worth the money. They don’t last as long and just aren’t as good. You really need to spend the extra money to get something worth having. The $50 MDF is the best value with highest quality that I have found.
I’ve tried the Littmann Classic III (about $125) and the Littmann Master Cardiology (about $200) and enjoy them both. I like the Master Cardiology version better because I never use the small size of the diaphragm so I liked the grip on the back of the Master Cardiology better than another listening piece. However, this is a personal preference and what scope you’d need to get depends on what kind they need, as some nurses find this very useful.
Nurse pro-tip: I highly recommend getting the scope engraved for them. People won’t always splurge on that for themselves, but it really helps because people borrow scopes all the time, have very similar ones, or people set them down somewhere and forget about it. At least 5 times I have set mine down and forgotten it, and because I had my name engraved on it, a coworker was able to return it to me later on. I highly recommend getting it engraved!
Want more stethoscopes opinions from a nurse? Check out this blog post from The Nerdy Nurse!
Badge Reels and Accessories
My favorite badge reels, by far, are from Badge Blooms on Etsy. The shop owner is a nurse (score!) and I’ve tried out MANY of her reels and loved ALL OF THEM! Click here to read my full review of the reels, and click here to see my video review(also below). They are cost-effective, durable, high-quality, and there’s quite a variety.
Another item that can be attached to the badge reel is a small Sharpie on a key chain(pictured right). Nurses frequently are in need of a Sharpie for various reasons (signing and dating a wound dressing, marking drainage on a dressing, labeling patient items) and they never stay in your pocket long. Therefore, I highly recommend getting those tiny Sharpies on a keyring. They’re WONDERFUL!
Buy a badge reel, Sharpie pack, and a few pen lights and you’ve got a great badge set up!
Pen lights
As a neuro nurse who was frequently using a pen light to look at patient’s pupils, I’ve tried quite a few pen lights. You want one that isn’t too bright and isn’t too dim. I’ve found that most labeled “nurse pen light” or “doctor’s pen light” with pupillary measurements printed on the side are frequently too dim. And I found that a lot of those heavy duty LED lights were way too bright.
My favorite isone that can be clipped right on your badge reel(pictured below) so that you never lose it and can grab it in an instant. They’re lightweight enough to go on your badge reel and not weigh it down and very affordable. If you scroll back up to my photo with my badge reel, you can see I’ve got a black one on.
However, if you want more of a traditional penlight, my favorite pen light is an Energizer Pen Light in Silver. I couldn’t find it on Amazon for a decent price, but you can get them at Office Depot.
Nurse pro-tip: People steal awesome pen lights and stethoscopes all the time. Mark yours with nail polish or something that won’t wash/rub off. That way if someone walks off with your penlight (I’m looking at all of you neurologists and neurosurgeons right now!) it’s clearly yours.
Pens
These are the best nurse pens. Buy them. That is all.
Small bag / zipper pouch
I hate having things in my pockets that don’t truly need to be there. Seriously. My scrub pockets only contain my phone, brain sheet, 1 pen, and alcohol swabs. That’s it. My trick is to keep the non essential but still necessary items in a zipper pouch out at the nurse’s station. This contains my lip balm, a quick snack, back up pens and Sharpies, some essential oils to sniff if I’m dealing with a particularly stinky situation, phone charger, and so forth.
This is how I stuff mine for work – however this bag is no longer available!
I’ve used this one for years, but they’re no longer available. However, I’ve seen people use this below one before and it’s sharp. Masculine, feminine and gender-neutral patterns, big enough for your scope, and also looks clean and professional.
Whenever I would go to work, I’d put my purse in my locker and then bring my zippered pouch to the nurse’s station. I like to have a larger one so I can put my stethoscope in it once I’m done with my assessments for the day. These are also helpful when you have to float to another unit away from your break room and locker.
Big bag
Many people like to have a work-specific bag. That way they’re not emptying everything multiple times a week and keeping your dirty hospital bag to itself and not getting it gross with other stuff. Alright, so my go-to bag is no longer available. However, here is a list ones I’ve either personally used or ones I’ve seen people use that I think look really sharp.
My other favorite bag is the Classic LL Bean tote bag. I got my embroidered with my name and got extra long handles. I’ve had it since I graduated nursing school in 2010! It’s still holding strong. They also always have free shipping – score! Click here to get yours!
Cunada® Women Fashion Hobo Bag Large Tote Shoulder Handbag – a very affordable bag on Amazon that’s a really popular style now. You can fit a water bottle, zipper pouch, and a few more items in there as well. There are some good detailed Amazon reviews that are helpful to check out. I personally love this style of bag. Simple, sophisticated, functional. Pictured below. Click here to get yours!
I would be remise if I didn’t put the classic nurse work bag on here. This bag isn’t my favorite, but I know a TON of people who love this. It works well because of the various compartments and because it is incredibly easy to clean. I know many nurses who make this tote bag their work bag and I’ve seen them use it day in and day out for years. Again, another one with good Amazon reviews. One person even says, “great bag for a nurse!” – Click here to get yours!Picture below.
Not feeling any of these options? Take a look at this blog post from The Nerdy Nurse, which goes over 7 work bags for nurses with links to purchase.
Hydration
Most nurses come to work with a water bottle/cup. It’s nice to have a good water bottle/cup that can keep either your water cold for hours, or your coffee hot for hours.
A Yeti cupis a wonderful but about $40, they’re expensive for a water bottle/cup. The RTIC cup (pictured right) is the cheaper option at about $20. I have this one and simply love it. I can put ice in at the beginning of the day, and the ice is still there and my drink is still cold at the end of the day.
If you’re not a water cup kinda person, my other favorite water bottle is this one. I’ve left it on a plane TWICE before though (what is wrong with me?)… and always buy a new one because they’re very affordable and great quality!
Anatomy of a Super Nurse: The Ultimate Guide to Becoming Nursey
It’s finally here! I have spent the last year completely overhauling and updating my first book, Becoming Nursey! The American Nurses Association and I worked together to create this awesome resource for nursing students and new graduate nurses. Now called Anatomy of a Super Nurse: The Ultimate Guide to Becoming Nursey.
Sneak peek of the Table of Contents!
Chapter 1 – Gandalf the Grey, RN
The Sides of Nursing
The Good Grey Nurses
It’s a Journey
Chapter 2 – Surviving Nursing School
Organization
Studying
Relationships
Care Plans
Nursing School Clinicals
Prioritizing Your Mental and Physical Health
NCLEX Quick Tips
Licensure Basics
Coming Around Full Circle
Chapter – Getting a Job
Preparation for Job-Hunting: Things to Do Beforehand to Set Yourself Apart and Give Yourself an Edge
The Follow Up
Chapter 4 – Graduate Nurse Turned Bedside Nurse
Basic Orientation Structure, Preceptors, and Mentors
The Role of the New Graduate on the Nursing Unit
The Orientation Process
Goal Setting
Chapter – Nurses: Coordinators and Leaders of the Team
Therapy Services
Social Work and Case Management
Chaplaincy and Spiritual Support
The Pharmacy Team
Additional Team Members
Working with Physicians and Their Support Staff
So, Who Ya Gonna Call?
How Their Schedules Work
Rounding with Physicians and the Medical Team
Calling the Medical Team
A Lot of Cooks in the Kitchen
Chapter 6 – New Nurse Basics
Report
Assessments
The Man, the Nurse, and the Dementor Foot
Pain
Delegation
Policies, Procedures, Order Sets, and Protocols
Documentation
Chapter 7 – Time Management
General Time Management Etiquette
Prioritization
General Time Management Principles
Time Management on the Floor
Floor Nursing Timeline
Time Management in Critical Care
Chapter 9 – Dealing with Tough Patients and Loved Ones
First Things First: You Deserve Respect
Three Practical Steps to Handling This
Avoid the Power Struggle
Tips for Dealing with Specific Demeanors (No, not Dementors…Demeanors)
Need some extra help with EKG’s? Love podcasts? Check out the new NRSNG EKG Podcast!
Having trouble working on your care plans for nursing school? Check out the database of care plan information.
How do I apply for the NCLEX? What can I bring? How many times can I take the NCLEX? And every other single NCLEX-related question you could think of answered in one spot!
Need some tips on getting into nursing school? Check out this free webinar.
If you are a nursing student, you MUST watch this webinar on test taking skills. Nursing school exams are very different from other exams. Check out this free webinar about test taking skills specifically for nursing school!
Alright people, it’s that time of year again: National Nurses Week.
Get ready for pens, plastic cups, and tiny bags with your hospital logo on them and mounds and mounds of donuts, cookies, cakes, juice, soda, and muffins.
Nurses Week “Treats”?
It’s funny, I think when people want to “treat” the nurses, their go-to is some sort of sweet goodie. However, patients and families like to thank the staff throughout the year for their care as well, so just about every week there’s some other deliciously terrible treat just sitting in the break room… looking at you… tempting you… staring into your soul…
As a nurse, you’re in sort of a tough spot because you appreciate their gesture and gratitude… but soon these gifts are no longer a treat or indulgence because they are given so frequently. They used to be something you looked forward to… now, they’re just yet another source of stress because you have to figure out how to look thankful without eating them. Oh, and then you have to actually utilize the willpower to not eat them. Utterly exhausting.
A healthy Nurses Week option
However, there’s hope. This year, Einstein Bros. Bagels has released a new line of bagels called Boosted Bagels. Essentially, they are bagels with added protein, omega-3s, fiber, antioxidants, and one even has a boost of caffeine!
Protein is a key macronutrient, people! I usually have a protein bar every day, high-protein yogurt, sometimes also a protein shake, and still don’t always meet my protein requirements. Here’sa great article about protein intake and its importance. Therefore, I love it when I find new ways to sneak more protein into my diet.
Assessment findings
A thorough head-to-toe assessment is an essential aspect of every nurse’s practice. I wanted to provide you with the important assessment data for this treat so you don’t have to go digging in the depths of the chart for it.
Below are my Boosted Bagels assessment findings (don’t worry, I documented them per policy):
Espresso Buzz Bagel – Boosted with 32mg of caffeine and 13g of protein
Cherry Chia Bagel – Boosted with 300mg of omega-3 ALA and 12g of protein
Savory Parm Bagel – Boosted with iron, B1, B2 and 12g of protein
The Espresso Buzz Bagel has 32mg caffeine (for reference, one 12oz cola has roughly 29mg caffeine). You can get your protein and caffeine fix in one step, which is crucial for nurses because half the time you don’t get much time to eat anyway! (And a great option for people who don’t like to drink coffee.)
You can get these with some Shmear (gah, I love that word) or with a sandwich. Below are the sandwich options which, again, are documented per policy:
Espresso Buzz Bagel& Bacon Sandwich – includes thick-cut, brown sugar bacon, cage-free eggs, cheddar cheese and butter on an Espresso Buzz Bagel
Cherry Chia Ham & Swiss Sandwich – includes smoked ham, cage-free eggs, Swiss cheese and butter on a Cherry Chia bagel
Hot Parm& Bacon Sandwich – includes thick-cut bacon, cage-free eggs and hot parmesan Shmear on a Savory Parm Bagel
I’ll take an Espresso Buzz Bagel & Bacon STAT, please.
How to get your Nurses Week freebie
Einstein Bros. Bagels is giving a free Espresso Buzz Bagel and Shmear to any nurse who stops by a participating Einstein Bros. Bagels location on Thursday, May 11, 2017, wearing his or her scrubs or with ID.
Repeat: nurses get a FREE Espresso Buzz Bagel and Shmear on Thursday, May 11, 2017. This is not a drill, people!
So go grab a Boosted Bagel and share it on social with the hashtag #NurseTheBuzz for Nurses Week 2017!
Thank a nurse
Show your appreciation for your fellow nurses by entering the #NurseTheBuzz Sweepstakes, which is a chance to win one free bagel with Shmear from Einstein Bros. Bagels every week for an entire year.
To enter, go to nursethebuzz.com and share a thank you message directed at a nurse or nurses who have impacted your life, or hop on Twitter or Instagram and use the hashtag #NurseTheBuzzSweepstakes with your message.
So check out Einstein Bros Bagels Boosted Bagels and head on over there this Nurses Week to snag a free Espresso Buzz Bagel!
This post on the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) FlexPath program is sponsored by and crafted with Capella University; however, all opinions are my own.
At the beginning of last year Capella University launched a new learning format for their RN-to-BSN program they describe as self-paced called FlexPath. Being a self-starter that style of learning was very intriguing to me, but since I already had my BSN, it wasn’t really applicable to me. However, Capella has just announced their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) FlexPath program*! Capella’s MSN FlexPath program is the first of its kind. No other university offers an MSN with this type of groundbreaking learning format. Since I am interested in obtaining my MSN with a focus on Nursing Education, I really wanted to learn more about what obtaining a self-paced online degree would actually look like.
Capella allows anyone to try out this format with a FREE FlexPath trial course. So… I tried a course! I wrote this post so you could see my genuine thoughts as I checked out this new style of online learning. It’s important to me to be able to get an idea of what something like this would be like before taking the big plunge into an MSN program.
I am intrigued by FlexPath because my schedule fluctuates quite a bit, so committing to a normal college course timeline and pre-set due dates isn’t really an option for me at this point in my life. I have periods of time where I can get a lot done, but others where I am very busy and probably couldn’t meet the deadlines of a more traditional online format.
I haven’t taken a full online course since 2007 and my experience at previous institutions was less than awesome. The structure of the course made it difficult to find due dates, communications, and documents. Oh, 2007… I was probably waiting in line for the Harry Potter and theDeathly Hallows to come out while I was looking at prices for Blu-ray discs to replace my DVD’s on my Blackberry, and missed a discussion post. Typical.
For those of you who are not familiar with Capella’s FlexPath learning format, it is a different way to obtain your degree than the typical online experience. Here are the big benefits FlexPath offers that you won’t get in a more traditional online format.
A new level of flexibility – With this 100% competency-based program, you can set your own deadlines and there are no discussion posts, so whether you finish a course in 2 weeks or 12, it is up to you. You dictate your pace (if you have more time and want to be more aggressive with your deadlines, or have a lot going on and need more time). Once you are done, you move on to the next course without waiting.
Different cost structure – with FlexPath you pay per 12-week billing session, not per credit hour. And with the self-paced structure, you complete as many courses per session as you can, for one flat tuition fee** (which enables me to budget better) for that period of time. Therefore, the faster you progress, the more you save. For example, pace your MSN faster to graduate in 1 year at under $10,000. For a more moderate pace, finish in 2 years at under $19,500.
Your experience matters – There’s nothing I appreciate more than when my existing knowledge is considered. I’m not completing unnecessary assignments that are not beneficial to my specific needs. Every nurse going into an MSN program brings different skills sets and experience to the table, and I like that my unique experience matters as I progress my education. It also means I’m not using my valuable time to do something I already know how to do.
Different levels of support – In any online program, occasionally you have clarifying questions for the professor, but sometimes you just need some pointers, minor clarification, or technical help. I hated sending an email to my professor about something minor (but important) and waiting 4 days to get a response because they were so overloaded with similar messages and tasks. I like that there’s someone specifically for logistic help (FlexPath coach), someone for content assistance (FlexPath tutor), and then my professor. They also have additional resources like a writing center, career center, librarians, and so forth.
Exploring FlexPath Course Structure
This was set up much better than my previous courses. But that’s not terribly shocking since it’s been almost 10 years (gasp!) since I’ve taken one.
The trial course shows you what a real courseroom would look like. You’ve got navigation on the left side with links to your progress within the course, required assessments (essentially your major assignments), the syllabus, notifications, and tools. It looks like you spend most of your time under the assessments tab, which is where your assignment-specific information is located.
Here is a screenshot of the trial course home screen:
An unexpected surprise was the classroom’s ease of use and the intuitiveness of the online platform:
When you click on links or buttons, it opens a new tab. I know that’s a small thing, but when you’re doing this a lot, it makes a big difference to have necessary pages or documents in their own tab.
The scoring guide is really obvious. I can easily tell what is expected of me.
The syllabus is part of the navigation. This means I can quickly access it and am incapable of losing it. (Score!)
When I need to look up a resource from a journal or database, it’s within the dashboard. This subtle feature makes things substantially more convenient because I don’t have to log into another website to get what I need.
You can chat online with a librarian during specific hours. Guys. I hate the phone… like, with a passion. The ability to do an online chat when I need help compiling resources (which I needed many times during my undergrad) is simply magnificent.
Setting Your Deadlines
We chatted a bit about setting deadlines, but I wanted to show what that actually looked like. Remember, you read your assessment and then you decide how long you think it will take you? Here’s what it looks like when you set your deadline:
Submitting a FlexPath Assessment
For each assessment, you are given an overview of the requirements and what success looks like. It reminds me of the prompt for a paper. How many of us have Googled our assignment just to get an idea of what the professor was talking about?
Writing a paper? Compiling APA resources? Discussing my knowledge? No 50 question timed exam over 400 pages of material? No test anxiety?
I think assessments are my new love language.
After you get your mind around what’s expected, you then set your target completion date. If you’ve got questions, there are links to connect with a facilitator, tutor, or instructor. No, not sending emails back and forth, thank gosh… my inbox is already fuller than the trashcan outside of an isolation room.
They also provide a scoring guide, which again, is really helpful. I’ve written some papers but not been aware of how I was actually going to be graded.
I wrote my trial course assessment and uploaded it per the instructions. It stated that I would have facilitator feedback within 2 business days. I received my feedback and a grade about 2 business days later. There was an entire page-long written response to my assessment, followed by a grade… which was kind of cool to see, even though it was just a trial course.
What Everyone Cares About Most – How You’re Graded
Writing is my personal strength, not taking tests. I’m what you’d call a poor test-taker. I’m a terrified tester. Tumultuous test-taker. Turbulently tearing tests…. Okay I’ll stop now.
I’m bad at tests.
Even things I know beyond a shadow of a doubt… I doubt under pressure. (You pull out your calculator on your phone for 8+6 too? Great.) I would much rather leverage resources and synthesize my thoughts into an authentic assessment based off of my timeline versus taking an exam to demonstrate my knowledge. I think that’s a much more effective way to learn because I’m showing that I really have mastered a concept and haven’t simply memorized facts for a test. I’m leveraging my resources available to me to come up with an appropriate response… sound familiar? It reminds me of when I’m working at the bedside, utilizing what I have at my fingertips (policies, procedures, medication references, other member of the healthcare team, online databases, and quite a few more things) to deliver the best care possible to my patients.
Here’s a little more in-depth about how learning is assessed:
After really diving into the trial course, I feel like this is a step up from the regular online learning options out there in terms of personalization and accountability. So if you are motivated, focused and self-directed, this would be a great fit for you. However, if you need more structure, FlexPath may not be the best option. But don’t worry, Capella also offers the MSN in their more structured online format: GuidedPath, so you have options.
When I was fresh out of high school, this probably wouldn’t have been ideal for me because the transition from high school to college was a steep academic learning curve for me. But now, this learning format is ideal for my learning style.
My Final Thoughts on the Master of Science in Nursing FlexPath Option
I was pretty blown away at FlexPath after trying the trial course. I have been putting off getting my MSN because I simply haven’t had the time and was overwhelmed at the simple thought of the pre-set deadlines. However, after really jumping in and seeing what it would practically be like, I’m ready to take the plunge. I’ve actually decided to go ahead and begin my MSN with a focus in nursing education in the next coming months at Capella through the FlexPath format.
If you’d rather do more of a traditional-style of online learning, there is always Capella University’s GuidePath option. This option includes due dates set by the instructor, discussions, and/or other assignments.
Also keep in mind that the BSN, MSN, and DNP degree programs at Capella University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Have you taken any FlexPath courses? What did you think?
*This offering is currently not approved for federal financial aid by the U.S. Department of Education (ED).
I know a “brand promise” sounds like such a cliche term, but I want take a moment to let you know what it means when I have reviews on this site. I believe in transparency and honesty. So here’s what a review post on my blog really mean..
My reviews will always be honest. While I am open to reviewing products for my honest opinion on my site, I am not open to receiving compensation to say I like something when I don’t actually use it. If I don’t like something, I will say it. Companies that ask for my opinion know this from the start. They see the review the same time you do. They do not get to edit anything to ask me to say something specific, unless it is specific factual information stuff that enables the reader to understand the product better.
A sponsored review means that I was compensated for my time to complete the review. It takes a decent amount of time to facilitate a review with a company, get and use the product, compile the review, and publish it. Compensation is for all the time it takes to do that – not for me to say specific things (again, unless it is factual information about the specific product). With 3 jobs and a new baby, I can’t really afford to devote that much time to something and not be compensated. Many times companies will also provide discount codes or a giveaway within the review as a gift to readers. I do not make money for you purchasing items. The only time I (or anyone on any blog) makes money like that is through what’s called an “affiliate relationship”. I have two affiliate relationships. One with Amazon and one with NRSNG.com. Basically that means that if you buy something from Amazon or NRSNG.com through a link from my site, I get a small percent of the sale. This does NOT occur with review posts. I feel like that would be dishonest if that was part of review posts. Companies pay a flat fee prior to the review for my time only.
I get a lot of these requests. Only a few of them work out. I’ve had to say no to some because the product isn’t really something that speaks to nurses, the content is inappropriate, or I just didn’t have time. This is another reason I’ve had to start charging a fee. I am selective about what goes on this blog because not only is my time valuable.. so is yours. I don’t want to waste your time with tons of product reviews that are only mildly beneficially to you. I am selective about these because I want to maximize your time. Because of this, I limit the amount of review posts to 4 per month of nurse-related products/services.
Your trust matters to me. I do not want to do anything to betray that trust. I commit myself to be honest about the products I try out and what I use and enjoy. You will never see me post, RT, share, etc. anything that promotes something unless I actually use it.
My YouTube channel will contain nurse-related reviews and other product reviews. When I find things I like (nurse-related and not), or when I purchase something and find out it’s not what it was made out to be, I want to share that with others. Becoming a mom, I’ve already found things that I absolutely love and recommend and things that are terrible and a waste of my time and money. I will utilize my YouTube space for these reviews.
Hannah will probably be in basically all of my video reviews. It’s just 900 times easier to do these video reviews holding her. Plus she’s so dang cute.
Thank you for reading my blog. Thank you for being part of my audience. I appreciate you and your engagement. Facilitating these reviews is fun to me because as a consumer myself, I like to be able to provide honest feedback to you. I hate wasting my time and money on things that don’t live up to what they’re advertised to be. I hate that as a consumer, I have to constantly read behind the lines and be on the defensive so I don’t get taken advantage of. Like you, I work hard for my money and really hate it when I pay for something and basically don’t get what I’ve paid for.
It’s hard to find trusted brands that make quality products, so when I do find those, I want to share them with you.
Below is basically a video of the above post. Hannah was my cohost. Mac is being a lazy bum in the back. So basically, it was a normal day 🙂
This is a sponsored review blog post. All opinions are my own and honest.
Today’s nurse product review is of the BadgeBlooms® nurse badge reels. Melissa, the founder, sent me 4 different designs to try out. Check out my nurse badge reel review below!
First assessment
My only concern straight out of the box was that my favorite one (the BRAIN, duh) was felt and not something I could easily wipe. I was concerned about being able to clean it appropriately should any gross stuff get on it. However, I did have the other brain one (pictured below) to use that I could easily clean. I feel like the felt ones would probably be better for people that don’t work in direct-patient care or direct-care areas that don’t typically deal with a ton of flying bodily fluids.
Things I look for in nurse badge reels
I want the alligator claw back – NOT the clip. I hate the ones that clip onto your scrubs (see my video review if you’re not sure what I mean here).
FRONT
BACK – this is the claw back I look for
I also want them to be easy to clean, and I want them not to droop when my heavy badge is attached. I have my pen light and a few pins on my badge so it gets a bit heavy. I also don’t use lanyards because I just end up smacking my patients in the face with them every time I assess them.
My PERRLA badge reel + my pen light
What I think about BadgeBlooms®
I wore these bad boys for two shifts and they met all of my aforementioned badge reel requirements. I think they’re good quality and held up well when I badged in and out of rooms all day. They stayed in place on my scrubs. They also did not droop at all.
I also think the price-point is appropriate. There are a ton of options (from funny to personalized to military to professional) and they range from $4.99-$18.99… from the ones I checked out. There’s over 1000 different badge reel options (say whhhhhatt!) so I didn’t search through every single option. The store has been up since 2011 and she has a 5 star rating with over 5,400 reviews and over 42,000 sales. That track record alone would have been enough for me to purchase.
I definitely recommend these. I think the price-point is appropriate for the quality and design and if you get one on sale or buy a pack, I think you’re getting a really good deal.
Also, BadgeBlooms® has always donated a portion of proceeds to a charity dear to the founder called the Save Abandoned Babies Foundation in Chicago, IL!
About the shop owner
Melissa, the founder of BadgeBlooms® is a NURSE, people! She started this business when the badge reel she purchased broke after a
few months and decided to make her own. This turned into making them for her coworkers, then opened an Etsy shop, and now they are the No. 5 best performing shop on Etsy for the accessories category, recently invited to sell on Amazon’s new Handmade Division, has been featured in her local newspaper, as well as Scrubs Mag online a few times! Well done Melissa, well done.
When asked about the name BadgeBlooms®, she stated, “Just as a flower transforms from a bud to an eye catching bloom, BadgeBlooms® have transformed the old boring badge reel.”
And check out BadgeBlooms® on Instagram and Facebook. She features many giveaways and coupons on Facebook, so go like her page to stay updated! And if you have one, take a pic with it an tag it #badgebloomselfie!
Please note, this is a sponsored blog post. All opinions are my own.
This is a review blog post on the Butter-Soft Scrubs from Uniform Advantage.
For my very first shift back on the job, post maternity leave, I wore Butter Soft-Scrubs from Uniform Advantage. I tried out two different pants, two different tops, and a jacket.The fabric feels pretty similar to other scrubs I’ve purchased. It’s not dry-fit or anything, they’re the typical scrub material, but definitely smoother/softer than your regular scrubs.
Specific Butter-Soft scrubs sampled
*These are the current prices as of April 16, 2016. They are all the original prices and do not reflect any sales
I am wearing medium tops, medium tall bottoms, and a large jacket. For reference, I’m about 5’11” and 170 lbs.
UA Butter-Soft STRETCH Scrubs Contemporary Fit TALL Drawstring Waist Pant – $20.99 (medium)
UA Butter-Soft STRETCH Scrubs Snap Front Jacket – $19.99 (large)
UA Butter-Soft STRETCH Scrubs Empire Waist Top – $17.99 (medium)
UA Butter-Soft STRETCH V-Neck Media Scrub Top – $17.99 (medium)
Pants
I usually geek out when I find scrubs pants that come in talls. Not very many brands carry talls, let alone a legit selection. Both that I tried were straight-leg with a ton of pockets. I typically wear a flare-leg with minimal pockets, so this was definitely out of my comfort zone! I have decided I love straight leg pants now.. I think my issue was trying on straight-leg pants that were too short. Both pants still did have a few more pockets than I’m used to or prefer, but if you are someone that loves a lot of pant-pockets, these will be great for you! They did have the typical elastic waist band, not a thicker yoga-style one, so I did have to do the “hike up the pants” maneuver prior to bending over and plugging in IV and SCD pumps.
Tops + Jacket
I loved the empire waist top. It was long enough for my extremely long torso and fit perfectly (see above list for all sizes I used). I really liked the empire waist combined with the V-neck. I think it made it look feminine, yet professional. It definitely accented in the right places, but still covered appropriately at all times. They also had a nice little pocket inside the right larger pocket and my iPhone 6 fit perfectly in there. I didn’t have that annoying problem of it falling out of my pocket every time I bent over. Gross.
The second top was super short on me. I should have realized that before, looking at the pictures online again. It does look shorter than the others. I typically barely length-wise fit into an empire waist or wrap waist set of scrubs regardless of the size, so I probably should have anticipated that. It did look pretty sweet though! The fabric was the same. The top has a little hole where you can thread your headphones through. I can’t see myself actually using that because I have a short commute and don’t wear headphones during work. But if you’re someone that takes the train or to work, walks, etc. and uses your headphones regularly, that would be a pretty nice feature! I honestly don’t think I’ve seen scrubs with that before.
I ordered a large jacket because I like my jackets to be a bit bigger. I do not like a tighter scrub jacket. Mama needs some room to breathe! I ordered a large and it was much bigger than I had anticipated. However, with my crazy-long arms, the length of the arms fit well, but the rest ended up being a bit bulky. I ended up running around like a mad woman during that shift, so I wore it for probably a total of two hours (not long in the nursing world!) but I did like it. I would order a size smaller next time around though.
My husband’s reaction when I put on these scrubs: “Wow, those are some nice scrubs! That jacket is kinda big though..” I know John, I know. It fits my arms though!
My final thoughts on Butter-Soft
I felt like these scrubs were definitely softer than the cheapest ones out there. Although, I have definitely worn softer ones. However, I feel like for this price point that they are extremely comfortable. If you want crazy smooth and light or dry-fit, you’re definitely looking at at least $30+ a piece. At full price, these are $20 and less.. I don’t think you can get better quality for that price. Figure in a sale price, and you’re really getting a good deal for some legit scrubs. I have only worn and washed these a few times, so I cannot speak to how they hold up over time.
Pros – They are extremely soft and snuggly. I mean really soft. They come in talls and the pants fit me well, which is a major plus of mine. They’re available at a ton of places, even the tall pants.
Cons – They are a slightly higher price-point. I have a long torso, therefore the tops are a little short on me and I need to wear a tank top underneath. They can be kind of heavy. No yoga-pant waist band.
Infinity by Cherokee
Pros – lightweight, antimicrobial, yoga-pant waist band, tall options, stretchy sides that move with you, good price point
Cons – they get really hot when you run around. I had a few shifts where we had code and I was sweating and running around and noticed at the end of the day that my skin was irritated and red from the scrubs. Their jacket version looks like an athletic top, so my manager actually made a coworker wear something different once because it didn’t look professional enough.
Pros – really high quality, comes in tall, looks really sharp, comfortable, whenever you purchase a set they donate a set to a healthcare worker in need, great waistband, antimicrobial, fluid-resistant, odor-resistant, comfy yet durable
Use promo code FIGSKATI for 15% off of one order!
Cons – higher price point, only available on their website (wearfigs.com), not as many pockets as other brands
I usually don’t review products that are not directly related to nursing, but I decided to review this product because I feel like it is a really great gift idea and product for nurses to promote self-care. Please note that this was a sponsored post, however my opinions are my own.
What it is: a subscription box that is shipped each season (every 3 months)
Cost: if you just want one box it is $50, if you want an annual subscription it is $180
What comes in each box: it changes with each season to reflect products that would be more appropriate for that time of year. They are not sample sizes; all products are full-sized. The items are typically themed around things that promote health, self-care, or are just fun/enjoyable.
Spring 2017 box contents – please note this picture was updated to reflect the latest box, not what’s reflected in this review
My thoughts before opening the box
Ok, so this box is much bigger than I thought it would be.. especially when compared to other subscription boxes I’ve received and seen. It’s pretty cute with the flowers and whatnot. A+ for presentation. Although.. $50 seems like a lot for a box of stuff that I don’t even know what is in it..
My thoughts when checking out the products
Wow. There is A LOT in here – 10 total items. This price-point now makes sense, and actually seems like a value for the amount of things in here. If I were to go buy all of these individually, it would be well over $50. There is a really nicely-made pamphlet that describes each item in depth, why this item was selected, and the retail price of each item ($282.91 total). Four of the ten items included a discount code if you wanted to buy anything else from that particular retailer.
My thoughts after using the products
My favorite items in this box were the hair oil, shaving lotion, herb garden, bath bombs, and resistance cord. I’m using the hair oil and shaving lotion daily. The resistance cord was a great addition to my home workout gear. And a bath bomb followed by the keratin gloves makes for a great at-home spa treat with minimal effort.
I also had been meaning to buy one of those little herb gardens anyway since I’m always finding myself buying some. My herbs have barely started growing.. but I don’t have much of a green thumb though. Between having a newborn and being a nurse, I think my thumb is more brown than anything 😉
So even if I had just purchased those 5 items for myself, it would have retailed for $130.91.
The only reason I did not like the other items as much is because the necklace wasn’t really my style, I’ve yet to use the gift cards (two gift cards for two jewelry companies were included – however they were for $25 and $30 and the cheapest items on those sites were about that cost.. giving my a very limited selection unless I wanted to spend more), and I have no idea how to use a contour kit.
Final recommendations
I was skeptical about something that seemed so pricey, but after actually using everything, I think this is a great subscription service. While it seemed expensive upfront, it actually ended up being a deal, even if you didn’t enjoy every single item. The items are all related to health, beauty or fitness, which promotes self care. It is delivered to your door, so it is a great treat for yourself with no effort. And I think this is an awesome gift for someone as well, especially if they are hard to buy for or if you just don’t know what to get someone.
My only cons were that it does auto renew – so must go in and cancel, regardless of which purchase you make ($50 option or $180 option), and that it is clearly a product directed at females, so sorry guys – you’ll have to look elsewhere! However, for all of you men out there, this would be a great gift for a spouse, girlfriend, mom, etc.
I highly recommend this as a gift for yourself or someone else. Even at full price, it’s a great value for awesome quality items. I couldn’t have assembled a gift like this by myself and it takes literally all the work out of it.
Now that my newborn is asleep.. maybe I’ll figure out how to use that contour kit..
Nah, I think I’ll go nap.
Get yours
To get your FabFibFun box, click here. After I wrote this review, I ended up purchasing a yearly subscription as a birthday gift to myself. I really enjoy it because it’s a lot of stuff I would never think to purchase myself but really love. Aside from the nail polish in the spring box (nurses have no use for nail polish, ha!) I’ve used every single thing in mine multiple times.
Enjoy!
Liked my review? Check out some more product reviews on my site:
Alright people, I have to share with you my new favorite work shoes..
Note: I am not being paid to say this – this is not a sponsored post. This is a “I love these shoes so so much, I must share with the masses” post.
I used to be a Dansko girl through and through. However, I rolled my ankle one too many times. I started to venture out into other brands the past year or so but have returned home to my dear Dankso brand. However, it is a newer line from Dansko called, Work Wonders.
They’re a little cheaper ($100 vs. $140) than the traditional Dansko shoe. The heel is smaller (and I therefore can walk easier in them and don’t roll my ankle whilst running up and down stairs or to a patient hopping OOB) and they fit a little more snuggly. I feel like I can move quicker in them than the other ones. I’ve worn them for about four 12 hour shifts and for a few meetings here and there. They withstood the nursey test – my knees and legs did not hurt after wearing them for 14+ hours at a time and I did not get blisters, nor did I need to break them in. My legs felt like they did when I wore my old traditional Danskos.
The only concern I had was already addressed. I originally was concerned that they would start ripping at the bend (you can see creases in the show in the pic below). However, Danskos reached out to me personally to let me know that problem has already been addressed. Apparently there was a design flaw in the first batch of that shoe that was manufactured and they’ve already corrected issue! If there’s one thing I’ve learned about Danskos from wearing them for years is their outstanding customer service.
I’m also pictured wearing my current favorite compression socks. I’ve tried quite a few kinds. Nabee are awesome, but they have more compression than I need. I save those for car trips and whatnot. I’ve tried some others that are too thin/sheer and fall down after half of my shift. These are my happy medium, made by Cherokee. Slightly more compression and longer. Also, they’re only $6.99 so you can’t really beat that! I actually bought 3 pairs as my Secret Santa gift at the hospital this year!
The store that I got both them from the Alegria Cherokee in South Charlotte, NC. Here is a link to the website. Please note, they are working on getting these products on their site, but they’re not up yet. I wanted to let you guys know ASAP though about these great items and where I got them! If you are interested in purchasing them please give the store a call or walk in and mention this post! They will ship the Danskos free of charge to Nurse Eye Roll fans!
If you purchase anything on the Algeria Cherokee website, please enjoy a 20% discount and free shipping (orders over $50) with the promo code KLEBER20!
Tis the season of gift-giving! Below is my list of practical Christmas gifts for nurses and nursing students, ranging from most cost-effective to expensive. I’m not a big qift person or someone who enjoys novelty items.. practicality is my love language!
Gifts for Nurses pro-tip: while scrubs and shoes wonderful, they can be challenging to give because you must know exact sizes. This is why I didn’t include scrubs or shoes in this post.
I also love Amazon. (Duh.)
I frequently buy my Christmas gifts with Amazon Prime, so I tried to make all of the Amazon links ones with Prime.
All photos will link to the product depicted on Amazon!
**Please keep in mind this post was updated November 2017. Prices may differ from what’s listed below**
Compression socks
I have tried out many compression socks over the years. I have recently found my new favorite! They’re from FIGS! FIGS compression socks offer 20-30 mmHg compression, are long enough and sturdy enough to stay put for 12-hours, and I’ve washed them quite a few times since I got them a few months ago and they’ve withstood the washings and have no faded. They come in the pictured cranium pink, grey pills, or a slick black and grey.
My second favorite are Cherokee True Support are my second favorite, they’re not as durable or offer as much support but are a good purchase for the price.
They provide 12 mmHg compression. The price may vary depending on where you get them, but they’re about $10. If you get them at Lydia’s Uniforms, they’re usually $7.99.
If you’re looking for thicker socks, Nabee Socks are a great option. They’re a little shorter than the Cherokee and provide 15-20 mmHg compression. They were bit too short for me, but are a great option.
(Bonus points: the CEO of the company is a nurse!)
Nurse pro-tip: do not purchase compression sleeves for nurses. While they do provide support and look sharp, they are not made for 12-hour shifts on your feet and do not provide appropriate venous return. They kind of cut off at the ankle and fluid can get trapped down there and you can easily acquire the swelling you were trying to prevent. They are designed for running for a shorter period of time, not for standing and walking for hours on end.
Pen lights
As a neuro nurse who was frequently using a pen light to look at patient’s pupils, I’ve tried quite a few pen lights. You want one that isn’t too bright and isn’t too dim. I’ve found that most labeled “nurse pen light” or “doctor’s pen light” with pupillary measurements printed on the side are frequently too dim. And I found that a lot of those heavy duty LED lights were way too bright.
My favorite is one that can clip right on to your badge reel (pictured below) so that you never lose it and can grab it in an instant. The only downside with these is that you can’t really replace the battery and just have to get a new one when yours dies. The overall convenience of not having another item in your pocket far outweighs getting a new one when the battery goes out (I had one for 2 years before it died). They’re lightweight enough to go on your badge reel and not weigh it down and very affordable.
However, if you want more of a traditional penlight, my favorite pen light is an Energizer Pen Light in Silver. I couldn’t find it on Amazon for a decent price, but you can get them at Office Depot.
Nurse pro-tip: People steal awesome pen lights and stethoscopes all the time. Mark yours with nail polish or something that won’t wash/rub off. That way if someone walks off with your penlight (I’m looking at all of you neurologists and neurosurgeons right now!) it’s clearly yours.
Badge Reels and Accessories
My favorite badge reels, by far, are from Badge Blooms on Etsy. The shop owner is a nurse (score!) and I’ve tried out MANY of her reels and loved ALL OF THEM! Click here to read my full review of the reels, and click here to see my video review. They are cost-effective, durable, high-quality, and there’s quite a variety.
Another item that can be attached to the badge reel is a small Sharpie on a key chain (pictured right). Nurses frequently are in need of a Sharpie for various reasons (signing and dating a wound dressing, marking drainage on a dressing, labeling patient items) and they never stay in your pocket long. Therefore, I highly recommend getting those tiny Sharpies on a keyring. They’re WONDERFUL!
Buy a badge reel, Sharpie pack, and a few pen lights and you’ve got a great badge set up!
Relaxation
Something that’s awesome after a tough shift is a relaxing hot shower. I absolutely love some good aromatherapy during a post-shift shower. My personal favorite is the Eucalyptus Spearmint Stress Relief Aromatherapy line from Bath and Body Works. I think a great gift is the Stress Relief shampoo and conditioner because normally people don’t spend that much on shampoo and conditioner, so it’s a great treat and since they typically wouldn’t normally purchase it for themselves.
But, my absolute favorite is the Stress Relief Sugar Scrub though, which is around $16 when bought alone. Add this to the shampoo and conditioner, and you’ve got a great little gift set of items to ensure an incredibly relaxing hot shower post gross shift.
Another way to enjoy aromatherapy is with essential oils and a diffuser. Every night I’ll put a few drops of Lavender and Peppermint and essential oil into my diffuser before bed. It’s lovely. (My husband has actually begun to ask for it!)
As far as diffusers go you can go cheaper or more expensive. I really do like the more expensive ones, but a more cost effective one will do just fine. I personally get my oils from dōTERRA, but there are quite a few different options out there. Wherever you buy, ensure it says 100% pure on the bottle, it doesn’t have any added ingredients, and has some sort of quality assurance.
Lavender and Peppermint are great post-shift. Lavender helps to calm and relax, while Peppermint helps with tension and headaches. They compliment one another really well. I’ll rub some diluted Peppermint on my temples (very little though – it’s quite strong!) and on my neck as well.
If just starting out, I recommend Lavender, Peppermint, and Lemon + a diffuser (reminder, check out Amazon for diffusers as well)!
Nurse pro-tip: Bring lemon to work and keep it in your bag. Whenever you smell something awful (#allthetime) take a sniff to remove the odor from your mind, body, and soul. I used it throughout my pregnancy when my sense of smell was heightened and had awful nausea. It worked wonderfully. I continued to use it afterwards and keep it in my bag for PRN nasal needs!
Stethoscopes
My favorite scopes are from MDF. They’re more affordable than Littmann and have really great sound quality. For around $50 you can get a really high quality scope (pictured). They are a tad heavy, but I think their sound quality is outstanding… especially at that price point.
They also have a nice rose gold one that looks really sharp, but is at slightly a higher price point ($80).
Littmann is also a good option, but can become quite expensive. If you’re in school, I would get a $50 MDF scope. I say this because maybe when you graduate, you want to work in pediatrics or the neonatal intensive care unit… and you’d need a different scope for that. Or, maybe you are going to work in a pulmonary critical care unit and you need a really high quality digital one. When you’re in school, you’re not sure what you’ll do – therefore, get a quality scope that works for most patients to get through school, then reevaluate.
Nurse pro-tip: The $20 scopes are not worth the money. They don’t last as long and just aren’t as good. You really need to spend the extra money to get something worth having. The $50 MDF is the best value with highest quality that I have found.
I’ve tried the Littmann Classic III (about $125) and the Littmann Master Cardiology (about $200) and enjoy them both. I like the Master Cardiology version better because I never use the small size of the diaphragm so I liked the grip on the back of the Master Cardiology better than another listening piece. However, this is a personal preference and what scope you’d need to get depends on what kind they need, as some nurses find this very useful.
Hydration
Most nurses come to work with a water bottle/cup. It’s nice to have a good water bottle/cup that can keep either your water cold for hours, or your coffee hot for hours.
A Yeti cup is a wonderful but about $40, they’re expensive for a water bottle/cup. The RTIC cup (pictured right) is the cheaper option at about $20. I have this one and simply love it. I can put ice in at the beginning of the day, and the ice is still there and my drink is still cold at the end of the day.
If you’re not a water cup kinda person, my other favorite water bottle is this one. I’ve left it on a plane TWICE before though… and always buy a new one (they’re very affordable and great quality!) Click here to get yours!
Organization
I hate having things in my pockets that don’t truly need to be there. Seriously. My nurse pockets only con taint my phone, brain sheet, 1 pen, and alcohol swabs. That’s it.
My trick is to keep the non essential but still necessary items in a zipper pouch out at the nurse’s station. This contains my lip balm, a quick snack, back up pens and Sharpies, some essential oils to sniff if I’m dealing with a particularly stinky situation, phone charger, and so forth.
This is one I recommend. It’s high-quality, roomy, and has lots of pattern options (masculine, feminine, gender-neutral). And it’s a little expensive for someone to buy for themselves, so it really makes a great gift!
Whenever I would go to work, I’d put my big work bag in my locker and then bring my zippered pouch (like the onto the nurse’s station. I like to have a larger one so I can put my stethoscope in it once I’m done with my assessments for the day. These are also helpful when you have to float to another unit away from your break room and locker.
I would only get scrubs for someone else only if you knew exact sizes and any uniform color requirements. My current favorite brand is FIGS (here’s a review blog post I did). They don’t have a ton of color options though, so if the nurse you’re buying for has a a specific uniform requirement, make sure you know before buying.
They’re antimicrobial, fluid/odor/wrinkle resistant, have a yoga waist-band, and are a light yet durable fabric.
FIGS are more expensive than others, which is why it would make a great gift. They also have other non-scrub accessories that are amazing.
If your loved one is a nursing student, you could purchase the NRSNG Academy (pictured below) for them! It includes a plethora of resources, NCLEX prep material, resources they can utilize mobile, various review courses (pharmacology, cardiology, EKG, med-surg, and even nursing school test-taking tips!).
All of these resources were made by nurses, for nursing students!
They also have something called Scrubcheats (pictured below), which are lamented nursing reference cards made specifically for nursing school clinicals.
Also check out the Nurse Student Tool Gift Box (pictured below), which is essentially a gift box of nursing school clinical references. It’s wonderful!
Also check out this awesome nursing school t-shirt! It’s made by fellow nurse blogger and current DNP student Nurse Nacole! She’s known for her amazingly helpful content for nursing students. Go check her blog out at nursenacole.com.
Books
Check out some of the below books (a few written by yours truly!) written specifically for nurses, nursing students, and/or healthcare providers.
Need more nurse gift ideas?
Check out these nurse gift blog posts, written by nurses!
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Cardiac Nurse Crash Course
ACLS Reference Cards
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easier in them and don’t roll my ankle whilst running up and down stairs or to a patient hopping OOB) and they fit a little more snuggly. I feel like I can move quicker in them than the other ones. I’ve worn them for about four 12 hour shifts and for a few meetings here and there. They withstood the nursey test – my knees and legs did not hurt after wearing them for 14+ hours at a time and I did not get blisters, nor did I need to break them in. My legs felt like they did when I wore my old traditional Danskos.
