My Nursing School Favorites
Let’s face it: nursing school is HARD. From lectures and exams to clinical rotations, it can feel like you’re being pulled in so many different directions. During these past two semesters, I’ve managed to gather some supplies that have made navigating life as a student nurse a bit easier to handle. In this post, I’m going to share them with you!
There are so many different types of stethoscopes to choose from — ranging in price from about $30 to upwards of $300. Investing in a reliable stethoscope is crucial for success. You don’t have to buy the most expensive one. Just keep in mind that buying a stethoscope of good quality will save you a ton of money in the long run. And, it’ll be easier to hear lung and heart sounds while auscultating patients. I purchased a 3M Littman Classic III Stethoscope and i absolutely love it!. Best part is that they come in some many different colors.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/3M-Littmann-Classic-III-Stethoscope-Rainbow-Finish-Raspberry-Tube-27-inch-5806/125636484?selected=true
2. Monthly Planner (1 year)
Having a good planner is a huge necessity. If you’re anything like me, planners are crucial factor in keeping my life as organized as possible. I use the Day Designer 12 Month Planner and it’s a huge life saver. I use this to keep track of my assignments, exams, simulation and clinical schedules and much more. It’s also helpful if you work part time while in school!
https://www.target.com/p/2021-22-academic-planner-8-34-x-10-34-frosted-wirebound-daily-monthly-rugby-stripe-black-day-designer/-/A-81237593#lnk=sametab
I am a visual learner. I use colored pens and highlighters when studying. Basically, I associate terms and concepts with certain colors so that it’s easier to retain. This helps me a lot! Additionally, color-code exams, assignments, and events in my planner according to the course. This helps me to see what’s due for each class just by looking at my planner.
https://www.target.com/p/arteza-fineliner-pens-inkonic-fine-line-assorted-colors-set-of-24/-/A-81314082#lnk=sametab
4. Watch with a Second Hand (or a smartwatch with adjustable face)
Heart rate and respiratory rate are two vital signs that you’ll practice very often during labs and clinical rotations. In order to do so, you’ll need to have a watch with a second hand. You can use either a regular analog watch or a smartwatch if you have one. Just be sure to adjust your smartwatch face to one that has a second hand and you’ll be good to go!
https://www.amazon.com/Casio-Womens-LQ139A-1B3-Black-Classic/dp/B000GB0G2K/ref=sr_1_8_mod_primary_new?dchild=1&keywords=secondhand+watch&qid=1618260482&sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&sr=8-8
Let me tell you a secret: foldable clipboards are a game changer! I ordered one off of amazon that I have been absolutely loving. These are great to use while in labs or clinical rotations. They enable you to take notes while standing or on the go. And they literally fold in half and fit effortlessly into your scrub pocket! The one I purchased is the nursing edition and features a ton of useful information, including: temperature, height, and weight conversions, normal ranges for white blood cell count, respiratory rate, heart rate, and temperature, normal arterial blood gas values, and so much more! If you don’t listen to anything else from this post, listen to this: Buy it! Trust me, you’ll love it.
https://www.amazon.com/WhiteCoat-Clipboard-Mint-Nursing-Edition/dp/B07RB7N82M/ref=sr_1_8?dchild=1&keywords=foldable+clipboard&qid=1618260509&sr=8-8
6. Dry Erase Board (calendar or blank versions)
I use a dry erase calendar so that I can see everything due for the month at a bird’s eye view. It isn’t as detailed as my planner, but it does present me with a reminder of what I need to get done when I don’t have my planner open. A blank dry erase board is also a helpful tactic to use while studying. In addition to using color, I like to repeatedly write my notes so that i can retain them.
https://www.target.com/p/u-brands-16-34-x20-34-mod-frame-3-in-1-dry-erase-calendar-board/-/A-16732119#lnk=sametab
7. Comfy sneakers (white)
Comfortably sneakers are a necessity once you being clinical rotations. During this semester, my clinicals have only been about six hours. But by the time I reach my final semester, my clinicals will be about twelve hours long. It’s really important that you have some comfortable sneakers, because you WILL be standing and walking around during most of your shift. Different nursing programs may have different guidelines for the shoes that you’ll have to wear. Most schools want students to wear white sneakers. Some programs may require that your sneakers be leather, while others may not have a preference. Be sure to review your school’s policy when it comes to the your uniform.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=white+sneakers&ref=nb_sb_noss_2
These are just a few of my nursing school supplies that I’ve been loving. I hope you found something that sparked your interest. Thanks for reading!
