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Looking for a thoughtful yet practical gift for the nurse in your life?
Nurses do so much for patients without getting much (if any) appreciation for their incredibly hard and selfless work. Giving a nurse a thoughtful and practical gift that they can use on the job lets them know that you appreciate how hard they work to help others during some of the worst times in their lives. These gifts are perfect for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays, Christmas, nursing school graduation, or any other special occasion.
How We Chose This List of Practical Gifts For Nurses
Our team read through a ton of user reviews and star ratings to develop a list that makes your life easier and provides information to help you make a good decision on buying a practical nurse gift. Choosing the perfect RN gift requires some extra considerations to ensure it meets the unique needs of a nurse.
Practical Gifts For Nurses:
1. Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle
Many nurses don’t drink nearly enough water during their 12-hour shifts and then go home wholly dehydrated. Therefore, nurses need a good water bottle to bring to work with them every single day! Water is essential for life and good health, which is why a quality Hydro Flask Water Bottle makes such a great gift for nurses of all experiences and specialties.
Why We Love This
The Hydro Flask Water Bottle is a high-quality water bottle that can be used for many years and still look brand new. It is made out of food-grade stainless steel and is BPA-free. Also, it has excellent insulation, which prevents condensation from forming on the outside of the bottle.
But the best part about the Hydro Flask Water Bottle is the TempShield Insulation, which keeps beverages at the same temperature for many hours (hot drinks for 6 hours & cold drinks for up to 24 hours!).
2. Contigo Stainless Steel Travel Coffee Mug
Regular coffee mugs just won’t work for busy nurses working with patients. For one, nurses are seldom in the same place for more than a few minutes. And it would be great if their coffee could be the same temperature when they finally got back to take a sip of it!
Why We Love This
The Contigo Coffee Mug is a popular choice among many nurses (myself included – I have had one for the last four years). It has a leak-proof lid (when closed) for on-the-go activities. In addition, drinks stay hot for up to 7 hours and cold for up to 18 hours with vacuum insulation. This brand even comes with a lifetime warranty.
3. Chicken Soup For The Soul: Inspiration For Nurses
It is no secret that becoming a nurse is a personal calling and requires a lot of grit and compassion from those who enter the profession. Nurses deal with patients in some of the worst times of their lives and deal with both life and death situations. It never hurts to share some inspiration with one another!
Why We Love This
Chicken Soup For The Soul: Inspiration For Nurses consists of 101 heartwarming stories that encourage, inspire, and reassure nurses that their patients and families appreciate the nurse’s compassionate service. Nurses can use all the help and encouragement they can get, and this book of personal stories helps remind nurses why they became a nurse in the first place.
4. Raptor Shears
Many nurses I work with in the emergency room have the Raptor Shears, and we use them frequently in emergency situations. You can hook it to a belt or secure it using the pocket clip. Also, the Raptor Shears have a 25-year limited warranty, which could last through a nurse’s entire medical career or longer. This tool is an amazing and practical gift for a nurse.
Why We Love This
The Rapture Shears are six tools wrapped into one:
- Medical shears
- Strap cutter
- Ring cutter
- Ruler
- Oxygen tank wrench
- Carbide glass breaker
5. Safety First, Drink With A Nurse Wine Tumbler
If you have a wine-loving nurse in your life, then the Safety First, Drink With A Nurse Wine Tumbler just might be the perfect gift. And there are over 14 colors to choose from.
Why We Love This
It is vacuum insulated and designed for both cold and hot beverages – so you can drink the perfect temperature liquid all day long. Also, the cup prevents any sweating on the outside of the cup.
6. Vein Finder
Starting IVs is one of the most challenging and stressful clinical tasks that nurses will learn during the first few years in the profession. A vein finder is a great gift for nursing students, new nurse graduates, and even seasoned nurses who need a little extra help with starting an IV.
Why We Love This
For patients who are a difficult “stick” (as we call it in nursing), it is so helpful to have a vein finder in the back pocket. This is a very practical gift for nurses because many patients need an IV to receive fluids and other medications.
7. Cute Compression Socks
Compression socks must be a part of every nurse’s uniform because they help keep nurse’s legs healthy! Years of working on one’s feet for 12-hour shifts can be hard on the body and contribute to various venous issues. Luckily, wearing quality compression socks can help nurses prevent varicose veins, leg swelling, and decrease muscle soreness.
They work by squeezing the blood in the legs like a garden hose back up the leg, thereby increasing blood circulation. Many nurses even say that compression socks help keep their legs noticeably energized after a long shift.
Why We Love This
By giving a nurse a set of compression socks, you are letting them know that you care about their health and well-being. What a great message to send!
8. A Funny Nurse Coloring Book (to help nurses manage their work stress!)
Why We Love This
If you are looking for a funny gift to make a nurse laugh, here it is! Any nurse receiving a Nurse Coloring Book: Sweary Midnight Edition will find a little truth and humor within the pages. After all, being a nurse can be very stressful, and a laugh-out-loud book that can be shared with others for hours can provide a lot of well-needed stress relief. It would make a great gift for recent nurse graduates, new nurses in the field, or an experienced nurse as well!
9. Nurse Lunch Bag
Most nurses learn very quickly that they need to prepare and pack their own food for two reasons: 1) hospital food gets old quick and usually isn’t very tasty, and 2) packing a healthy lunch in advance ensures that the nurse will eat healthier throughout their shift. Otherwise, when lunch comes and they are so exhausted, there is a chance they might reach for some not-so-healthy options.
Why We Love This
The Baloray Lunch Bag is waterproof & leak proof. This brand claims to keep food cold or warm for more than 6 hours. It is also super easy to clean and is very lightweight.
Practical Gifts Nurses Will Love!
Tips To Consider When Picking a Practical Nurse Gift
When choosing a practical gift for a nurse, consider their daily work routine and the challenges they face. Here are some factors to consider and ideas for practical gifts:
Functionality:
Select items that serve a useful purpose in their work or personal life. Think about items that can make their tasks easier or enhance their comfort.
Comfort and Ergonomics:
Nurses spend long hours on their feet, so gifts that prioritize comfort can be appreciated. Consider items like supportive footwear, compression socks, or ergonomic accessories like back cushions or footrests.
Organization and Efficiency:
Nurses need to stay organized and manage their time effectively. Look for gifts that help with organization, such as a nursing-specific planner, a smartwatch with scheduling capabilities, or a high-quality clipboard or pocket organizer.
Tools of the Trade:
Nurses often rely on specific tools and equipment for their work. Find out if there are any tools or gadgets they need or would like to upgrade. Examples include high-quality stethoscopes, penlights, or portable pulse oximeters.
Professional Development:
Supporting ongoing education and professional growth is valuable. Consider gifting subscriptions to medical journals or nursing publications, online courses, or certifications relevant to their area of expertise.
Personalized Accessories:
Customized gifts can add a personal touch. Consider personalized name tags, engraved badge holders, or custom-made nursing-themed jewelry.
Remember, everyone’s preferences and needs may vary, so it’s a good idea to consider the individual nurse’s interests, style, and specific job requirements when selecting a practical gift.
Practical Gifts For Nurses Frequently Asked Questions:
What gift to give nursing staff? When considering gifts for nursing staff, it’s important to think about their needs and preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Personalized items like custom-made name badges or engraved stethoscope charms.
- Practical items such as comfortable shoes, compression socks, or ergonomic equipment.
- Relaxation gifts like spa vouchers, aromatherapy diffusers, or massage tools.
- Gift cards for their favorite restaurants, coffee shops, or online stores.
- Books, journals, or subscriptions related to healthcare or personal interests.
- Care packages with snacks, healthy treats, and self-care items.
What are simple gifts for nurses?
Simple gifts for nurses can still be meaningful and appreciated. Consider the following options:
- Handwritten thank-you cards expressing gratitude and recognition for their hard work.
- Small treats like chocolates, cookies, or homemade snacks.
- Inspirational or motivational quotes in the form of wall art, keychains, or desk accessories.
- Stationery or office supplies that can be used at work.
- Pocket-sized notebooks or planners to help them stay organized.
- Gift certificates for a coffee or tea break at a local café.
What do you get a healthcare worker for Christmas?
When choosing a Christmas gift for a healthcare worker, consider options that show appreciation and provide relaxation or enjoyment during the holiday season. Some ideas include:
- Cozy blankets, socks, or slippers for warmth and comfort.
- A subscription to a streaming service or audiobook platform for entertainment.
- A gift certificate for a spa day, massage, or wellness retreat.
- A personalized ornament or holiday-themed decoration.
- A gourmet food basket or a selection of their favorite snacks.
- A quality water bottle or travel mug to keep them hydrated on the go.
- A book or journal for leisure reading or personal reflection.
What do you get a nursing staff for Christmas?
When selecting a Christmas gift for a nursing staff or team, it’s thoughtful to choose items that can be shared and enjoyed collectively. Here are a few ideas:
- A catered holiday lunch or dinner for the entire nursing staff.
- A festive gift basket filled with treats, snacks, and beverages.
- Group activities or experiences such as a team-building outing or holiday party.
- Customized mugs or tumblers with the nursing staff’s names or a special message.
- Donations to a charity in the name of the nursing staff, supporting a cause important to them.
- A heartfelt thank-you note or card expressing appreciation for their hard work and dedication.
Is it appropriate to give nurses a gift?
Yes, it is generally appropriate to give nurses a gift as a way to show appreciation for their hard work and dedication. However, it’s important to consider workplace policies and guidelines regarding gift-giving. Some healthcare organizations may have specific rules regarding the value or type of gifts that can be received. It’s advisable to check with the nursing staff’s supervisor or human resources department to ensure compliance with any regulations in place.
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