Lifestyle Connections
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Imagine arriving at your first travel nursing assignment, only to realize you're unprepared and lacking essential supplies. Having traveled extensively, I've noticed many units facing shortages, exacerbated by the challenges of the post-COVID era. This discomfort is something I refuse to accept—I want the assurance that if I need to take a manual blood pressure, I can.
Now picture navigating a new hospital, unfamiliar surroundings, and new faces while feeling utterly uncomfortable. While time can ease the unfamiliarity, the right scrubs and shoes can significantly enhance your comfort from day one. Embark on your travel nursing journey fully equipped! This post not only addresses the challenges of arriving unprepared at a new assignment but also unveils my favorite nursing essentials that have been my go-to companions throughout my nursing career. Discover the most useful items that have not only stood the test of time in various hospitals but have become my trusted allies in the dynamic world of travel nursing.
While this post focuses on travel nursing, I believe it can be a good guide for new nurses and even nursing students. Please remember this post is solely based on my personal experiences and preference. I have linked all of the products I highly recommend in this post at the end of this article.
How did I prepare for my first assignment?
To prepare for your initial assignment, refer to my comprehensive travel nursing guide, 'Navigating the Globe in Scrubs,' available on the blog here. Once you've finalized all the necessary details through your company, it's time to set up at your destination. Personally, I recommend arriving a few days early to allow for unpacking, settling in, exploring the area, and locating your hospital. It's beneficial to identify the quickest route to your workplace ahead of your first day.
Ensure your work bag is packed and ready the night before to avoid any morning rush. Additionally, consider having your laundry done, shoes cleaned, and lunches planned in advance of your first day to start off smoothly. I usually opt for packing my lunch, which saves money and prevents me from having to rush during my lunch break.
What are my favorite scrubs?
I was once enamored with FIGS scrubs, but I discovered they were thicker than I preferred. During my first trip to Kentucky, I stumbled upon Carhartt Force Cross-Flex scrubs at a sporting goods store. Priced at 50% off and noticeably thinner than FIGS, I decided to give them a shot. To my delight, they quickly became my new favorite scrubs! I've purchased multiple pairs and even sold my FIGS. The Carhartt scrubs are incredibly flexible, lightweight, and, so far, I haven't encountered any issues with stains.
What are my favorite shoes?
I frequently receive questions about finding the perfect nursing shoe, and I've experimented with various brands like HOKA, Adidas, Puma, Nike, Under Armour, Asics, Brooks, On Running, and Skechers. Dealing with plantar fasciitis during nursing school, I was on a constant quest for the ideal shoe. My search finally ended when I discovered On Running shoes during my travels, and I can confidently say these shoes have truly changed my life.
Given the mixed reviews on shoes from different brands, it's reassuring to know that the struggle to find the perfect shoe is shared. If you haven't tried On Running yet, I highly recommend giving them a shot. While they may be on the pricier side, I believe the investment is worthwhile for the quality they offer.
One standout feature is their excellent warranty. I had an issue with a pair of waterproof cloudrunner shoes where the sole started to separate shortly after purchase. A quick contact with customer service, a few uploaded pictures, and within days, I received a gift card to cover a new pair of shoes. The customer service from this company is truly exceptional.
For ultimate comfort and support, pair your favorite work shoes with compression socks. These not only assist with plantar fasciitis but also contribute to improved circulation. I personally wear compression ankle socks with my waterproof cloudrunners, and even after 3-4 consecutive shifts, my feet remain pain-free.
What’s in my bag?
Firstly, determining the best type of bag for your needs is crucial. After trying various options, I've found that a backpack suits me best. The backpack I currently use was a thoughtful gift from my first travel assignment, featuring numerous pockets that help keep my belongings well-organized.
In terms of equipment, I swear by the Littmann Master Cardiology stethoscope. Its exceptional sound quality, ease of cleaning, and reliable warranty make it my go-to choice. My essential items include protein bars, a pen light, pens, clipboard, hand sanitizer, scissors, pulse oximeter, manual blood pressure cuff, a discreet bag for feminine products, badge and extra badge reels, a selection of medications (Tylenol, ibuprofen, midol, etc.), expo markers, permanent markers, highlighters, chapstick, and even a spare toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss picks. Hospitals should have pens, highlighters, and markers but I have worked at a few that did not have extra supplies. I like to have anything I may need in my bag. I also prefer the twin tip permanent Sharpie markers because I use the fine point for lab labels and the thick point for labeling my dressing changes. While preferences may vary, I've found that these items are consistently useful in my daily routine.
Remember to check with your workplace for any specific requirements or additional items. This list covers the basics for a well-prepared nurse!
In conclusion, consider this article your ultimate guide to turning the unknown into a playground of possibilities! Whether you're embarking on a new assignment or stepping into the workforce as a recent grad, the initial journey may seem like a rollercoaster. But hey, the secret sauce is preparation! So, gear up, embrace the adventure, and watch stress take a backseat. You've got this – here's to conquering the unknown with style!
Recommended Products:
Lunch Bag (unisex) | ||
On-Running Shoes (Women) | ||
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