Long nursing shifts can be exhausting, so having the right essentials makes a huge difference. This list includes my go-to nursing work day must-haves that help me stay comfortable, organized, and energized throughout a full shift.
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Sections
6
Comfort for long shifts
Work Day Essentials
Shoes for the shift
Hydration and Energy
Hygiene / Survival Mode
Organization/ Function
Comfort for long shifts
These are my go-to items for staying comfortable during long 12-hour shifts—total lifesavers
Comfortable, breathable, and actually flattering—makes a difference on long shifts.
Figs
Absolute must for long shifts—helps with swelling and keeps your legs from feeling dead by the end of the day.
Compression Socks for Nurses
Love this brands , so soft and comfortable
Healing Hands
These are some of the most comfortable, softest scrubs
Grey's Anatomy
Best website to buy scrubs online. Connect with this link https://uniformadvantage.sjv.io/PzyNYM
Scrubs: Medical Uniforms that Don’t Conform | Uniform Advantage
A must have for aching, tired or swelling legs
Bombas
Absolute must for long shifts—helps with swelling and keeps your legs from feeling dead by the end of the day.
Best Compression Socks for Nurses | Order Now | Nursemates
Work Day Essentials
Everything I keep in my bag to stay organized and prepared during a shift
The absolute best stethoscope. This is the only brand I have used throughout my nursing career
Littmann Stethoscopes
Fits EVERYTHING—look for one with lots of compartments.
Nurse Tote Bags For Work - Amazon.com
Fits EVERYTHING
ABAMERICA Waterproof Nurse Work Bag with Pockets
Big bags that will carry EVERYTHING!!
Personalized Nurse Tote Bags - Custom Name RN & CNA
You’ll use this nonstop—might as well make it cute or durable.
YJ PREMIUMS : Badge Reel
You’ll use this nonstop—might as well make it cute or durable.
Cheetah Leopard Heart Badge Reel Holder
You’ll use this nonstop—might as well make it cute or durable.
Jellyfish Nurse Badge Reel Acrylic ID Clip
Your phone dying mid-shift = no. This is a lifesaver.
Power Bank, 15000mAh Portable Charger with Built in Cable, 22.5W Fast Charging, 6 Outputs, Slim Travel Essential Battery Pack with LED Display, Compatible with iPhone 17/16/15/14/13, Samsung, iPad - Walmart.com
No longer working about your cell phone dying 💖
Breezio Portable Charger, 6000mAh Power Bank, USB-C Portable Phone Charger with Fast Charging (20W), Mini Battery Pack compatible for iPhone 15/16/17/Samsung - Walmart.com
Your phone dying mid-shift = no. This is a lifesaver.
VRURC 10000mAh Portable Charger Power Bank
Shoes for the shift
These keep your feet from feeling tired through the day
One of my absolute favorite shoes to wear for the long shifts that feel great on my feet
Brooks Running Shoes, Gear, and Apparel for Men & Women
Another great shoe that gives support for the long hour days
Hoka USA — Performance Footwear and Running Shoes for All Distances
One more great brand of shoes that supports those tired feet during a long shift
On | Swiss Performance Running Shoes & Clothing
Hydration and Energy
Quick, easy ways to stay fueled and hydrated when you barely have time to sit down
Keeps your water cold all shift-helps you actually stay hydrated
Hydro Flask: Sustainable & Refillable Water Bottles | Hydro Flask
Keeping your liquids cold and no spilling
BrüMate Era 40oz Tumbler w/ Handle & Straw
great to add a little flavor
Cirkul 22oz BPA-Free Water Bottle Kit Blue Lid
Keeps your meals fresh for long hours
ideaTech Insulated Reusable Lunch Bag for Women and Men, Large Leakproof Lunch Box for Work Office Picnic, 1 Count - Walmart.com
Keeps your meals fresh all day
Coobiiya Insulated Lunch Box Tote 10L Black
keeping your food fresh for hours
Fit & Fresh Bloomington Insulated Lunch Bag
quick clean snack when the shifts are busy
Quest Protein Bar, Chocolate Peanut Butter Flavor, High Protein, Gluten Free, 2.12oz, 4 Count
High protein snacks to keep you going
Pure Protein High Protein Bar, Chewy Chocolate Chip, 20g Protein, 12 Ct
Quick, clean snacks when you don't have time to sit
Protein Bars Made with Simple Ingredients & No B.S. | RXBAR
Perfect for staying energized- especally on hectic days
Liquid I.V.
Hygiene / Survival Mode
Little things that make a BIG difference during long, busy shifts
Your hands WILL get dry- this helps so much
Gold Bond® | High-performance Skincare
Great for dry, cracking skin
Eucerin Advanced Repair Hand Cream, 2.7oz, Pack of 3
