New Nurse Essentials & Must Haves

Welcome to the wild world of nursing! Starting out as a new nurse is an exciting and challenging experience. You’ve put in the hard work, aced the exams, and now it’s time to step into a whole new world of client-centric care. 

As any new nurse can tell you, walking into a hospital or clinic for your first shift can feel both thrilling and nerve-wracking. To make your transition as smooth as possible, it helps to have the right gear and mindset. This guide to new nurse essentials is here to help you get started on the right foot and feel fully prepared from day one.

What to Expect as a New Nurse

Let’s start with the basics: what can you expect as a new nurse? Your first few weeks and months will be a whirlwind of learning, adapting, and growing. Even with clinical experience under your belt, real-world nursing is filled with surprises. As you adjust to your new role, you’ll likely feel a mix of emotions. At times, it might be overwhelming, but remember, every nurse goes through this phase.

Expect long shifts, lots of walking, and a lot of emotional highs and lows. You’ll be on your feet a lot and will quickly learn the importance of prioritizing tasks. While all of this can sound intimidating, remember that you’re joining a strong support system — nurses are known for taking care of each other, and your colleagues are there to help you succeed.

With the right new nurse essentials on hand, you’ll feel more comfortable, confident, and ready to be a good nurse who can handle any situation that comes your way. Below, we’ve compiled a list of must-have items every new nurse should consider.

15 New Nurse Essentials And Must-Haves: A Guide For Thriving In Your First Year

Starting out as a new nurse is exciting, challenging, and let’s be honest — a bit overwhelming. To help you hit the ground running, here’s a list of must-have new nurse essentials that will keep you prepared, comfortable, and ready for anything that comes your way

1. Comfortable, High-Quality Scrubs

Scrubs are the uniform of the nursing profession, so finding the right fit and fabric is key. Look for scrubs that are breathable, comfortable, and have plenty of pockets. Since you’ll be wearing them for long hours, invest in scrubs that don’t wrinkle easily and maintain their shape. Some popular brands even have moisture-wicking and stretchable materials to keep you cool and flexible during busy shifts.

Many hospitals have color-specific scrubs for different departments, so make sure you check the dress code before purchasing. Having a few extra pairs in the rotation will also save you time and stress on laundry day!

2. Supportive, Non-Slip Shoes

As a nurse, you’ll be walking and standing for hours on end. A quality pair of supportive, non-slip shoes can make a world of difference in your comfort and posture. Look for shoes designed specifically for healthcare professionals, as they are made to support long hours on hard floors. 

Popular brands for nursing shoes include Dansko, Crocs, Brooks, and HOKA. Don’t forget to invest in high-quality insoles, especially if you already have foot issues. Good insoles can provide extra cushioning and arch support, which will prevent back and foot pain.

3. A Reliable Stethoscope

A high-quality stethoscope is a new nurse essential you’ll use daily. While it’s tempting to go for a cheaper option, investing in a reputable brand like Littmann can make all the difference in sound quality and comfort. 

A quality stethoscope will help you hear subtle sounds more clearly, allowing for better assessments and accurate care. As a fun tip, customize your stethoscope with your name or a distinctive ID tag. Hospitals are busy places, and labeling your tools helps prevent accidental swaps.

4. Nursing Scissors and Medical Shears

You’ll find yourself using scissors and shears regularly — whether for cutting bandages, opening packaging, or dealing with medical tape. Medical shears are sturdy, safe, and designed specifically for healthcare tasks. Look for a pair with a comfortable grip and durable blade; they’ll be a small but mighty addition to your toolkit.

5. A Nursing Watch With a Second Hand

Keeping track of time is crucial for tasks like administering medications, checking pulse rates, and measuring respiration. A reliable watch with a second hand is a must-have for any nurse who wants to stay on top of time management.

Many nurses opt for waterproof or easy-to-clean watches, given the exposure to various fluids and constant hand-washing. If watches aren’t allowed on your wrist, consider getting one that can be pinned to your scrubs.

6. Hand Sanitizer and Hand Cream

You’ll be washing and sanitizing your hands countless times a day, which can lead to dry, irritated skin. Carrying a personal hand sanitizer is useful for quick sanitizing on the go, while a pocket-sized hand cream can help you keep your skin moisturized and prevent cracking. Look for hand creams with healing ingredients like aloe or shea butter that won’t leave your hands greasy.

7. Penlights

A penlight is another new nurse essential, especially in settings where you’re checking pupils or assessing wounds. Look for a penlight with a soft, easy-to-press button and one that’s lightweight. Having your own penlight on hand will make assessments faster and easier.

8. A Supply of Pens and a Notepad

You’ll quickly discover that pens are hot commodities in hospitals. Nurses are constantly jotting down notes, updating charts, and filling out forms, so keeping a few extra pens in your pockets will save you from having to borrow or hunt one down. A small notepad can also be invaluable for jotting down details, reminders, or quick notes during your shift.

9. A Durable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is crucial during a long shift, yet it’s easy to forget to drink water in the midst of a busy day. A durable water bottle is a new nurse essential that will help you stay hydrated and energized throughout your shift. 

Look for one that’s leak-proof, easy to clean, and keeps water cold for hours. To get the most out of your water bottle, set a hydration goal for yourself and keep the water bottle within easy reach during your shift!

10. Badge Reels and Organizers

Badge reels are perfect for keeping your ID badge, keys, and other small essentials within easy reach. Many come with clips or retractable cords, making them functional and convenient. Badge reels with fun designs or motivational quotes are a small way to add some personality to your uniform and bring a smile to your face.

11. Compression Socks

Long shifts on your feet can lead to swelling and discomfort. Compression socks are a game-changer for new nurses, helping to improve circulation and reduce leg fatigue.

 Available in a variety of colors and patterns, they’re both functional and fun to wear! As a tip, try to have a few pairs in rotation, so you’ll always have a clean set for each shift.

12. Healthy Snacks

Sometimes, there simply isn’t time for a full meal during your shift, so having some healthy snacks on hand is essential. Protein bars, nuts, trail mix, and fruit are convenient and provide lasting energy to get you through busy periods. Keep a stash in your locker or bag so you’ll always have a nutritious option on hand.

13. An Extra Change of Clothes

Accidents happen in nursing, and spills are common. Keeping an extra set of scrubs or a clean T-shirt in your locker can be a lifesaver on messy days. Knowing you have a backup outfit can give you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the people you care for without worrying about unexpected stains or spills.

14. A Positive Attitude and Patience

No list of new nurse essentials would be complete without mentioning the importance of patience and a positive outlook. Nursing can be incredibly rewarding but also physically and emotionally demanding. Taking time for self-care, practicing patience, and learning from every experience will help you thrive in your role.

15. Portable Phone Charger or Power Bank

Staying connected is essential, whether for checking patient records, accessing reference apps or simply keeping in touch with family. A portable phone charger or power bank is a must-have for long shifts, especially if your phone’s battery tends to drain quickly. 

Look for a lightweight model that fits in your pocket or bag, so you’ll always have a backup when you need it. Many chargers now come with multiple ports, so you can share the power with a coworker in need — because nurses always have each other’s backs!

Building Your New Nurse Essentials

Starting your nursing career is a big transition, but having the right tools and essentials will make you feel more prepared and comfortable. Every nurse has their own list of go-to items, and you’ll likely find your own new nurse essentials as you gain experience. Don’t be afraid to try out different items to see what works best for you and your unique style of nursing.

Remember, you’re never alone — a whole community of nurses is ready to support you and share their tips and advice. Take each shift one day at a time, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. With these new nurse essentials, you’re well on your way to a successful and fulfilling nursing career!

The entire Care Options for Kids team believes in supporting new nurses so they can succeed in their careers. We offer seamless support through a 24/7 line that nurses can call for any level of assistance. New nurses can also expect knowledge sharing and insights through our new grad mentoring program that provides one-on-one guidance with experienced pediatric care professionals. 

Join the Care Options For Kids Team!

Are you ready for meaningful work that comes with benefits and not burnout? Join the compassionate care team that helps children and families live their best lives. Our clinicians provide best-in-class pediatric nursing, therapy, and school-based services. We bring individualized care to children where they live, work, and play. We have opportunities in homes, schools, and clinics across the country.

Apply at Care Options for Kids now. We make it easy to start so you can make a difference as soon as possible.