7 Nurse Essentials: What You Should Bring to Work

Being a nurse means you’re always on your toes, quite literally. Whether you’re starting your shift in the emergency department or gearing up for clinical rotations, having the right essentials can make all the difference. From comfortable women’s and men’s scrub sets to snack-filled lunch boxes, the right tools can keep you comfortable, organized and ready for anything.

Let’s dive into the top seven essentials every nurse should bring to work.

1. Comfortable and Functional Scrubs

Scrubs aren’t just a uniform—they’re your everyday armor. With long shifts and constant movement, you need scrubs that hold up, both in durability and comfort.

Here’s how you can choose the best scrubs for your nursing shifts:

• Soft and Breathable Fabric: Your scrubs should feel as good as they look. Go for soft, breathable materials that keep you cool and comfortable, no matter how long your shift lasts.
• Durability: Scrubs go through a lot—long shifts, constant movement and endless trips through the washing machine. With so many different types of scrubs on the market, make sure to pick fabrics that can withstand frequent wash cycles without losing their quality or color. Durable scrubs mean one less thing to worry about during your busy day.
• Multiple Pockets: Pockets are a nurse’s best friend. Look for scrubs with plenty of storage for your essentials—like your phone, medical tools and even snacks for quick breaks.
• Stretch and Flexibility: Long days call for scrubs that move with you. Slightly stretchy fabrics make all the difference when you’re bending, reaching or running between patients.
• Moisture-Wicking Technology: Staying dry and confident during high-pressure moments is key. Scrubs with moisture-wicking properties keep you feeling fresh, even when things get hectic.
• Easy Care: Let’s be real—you don’t have time for high-maintenance scrubs. Wrinkle-resistant and easy-care fabrics mean less time ironing and more time focusing on what really matters.

Healing Hands scrubs are designed with both fashion and function in mind. Whether you prefer a modern slim fit or a more relaxed look, you’ll find plenty of styles and colors to suit your taste. And since we know every day in healthcare brings a different challenge, our men’s and women’s scrub sets are made to keep up with you, day in and day out.

2. Supportive Footwear

Your feet are your foundation, and they bear the brunt of every 12-hour shift. Whether you’re walking from room to room or standing for hours during patient care, wearing comfortable shoes is non-negotiable. Shoes with cushioned insoles, arch support and breathable materials can make a world of difference in how you feel at the end of a long day.

Look for brands that prioritize comfort and durability, like nursing shoes that are specifically designed for healthcare professionals. Your feet—and your back—will thank you.

3. Lab Coats for Extra Coverage

A durable, stain-resistant lab coat can be your best friend during rounds or when handling administrative tasks. It’s not just about looking professional (though that’s a plus). A good men’s or women’s lab coat offers extra coverage and protection, especially when you’re dealing with unpredictable situations like spills or splashes.

Here’s a list of how to choose a durable and functional lab coat:

1. Stain and Splash Protection: Look for a lab coat that resists stains and spills to keep you protected during patient care and lab work. It’s an essential barrier for staying clean and professional.
2. Tailored Fit: When it comes to lab coat sizing, finding the perfect fit is key. Look for a white coat that’s comfortable and professional—not too loose, not too restrictive—so you can move freely while maintaining a polished appearance.
3. Ample Storage: Pockets are a must! Opt for a lab coat with well-placed pockets to store tools like medical tape, a stethoscope, or even your phone. Functionality is a priority when you’re on the move.
4. Easy to Clean: Pick a women’s or men’s lab coat made from fabrics that can handle frequent washes without losing their shape or crisp appearance. A polished look, shift after shift, is always a win.
5. Enhanced Comfort: Lightweight, breathable materials make all the difference during long shifts, especially when layered over underscrubs. Because comfort should never be an afterthought.

4. Hand Sanitizer and Wipes

In hospital settings, cleanliness isn't just a recommendation—it's a requirement. Nurses are constantly on the move, interacting with patients, equipment and other healthcare professionals, so having access to hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes is crucial.

A portable, pocket-sized bottle of hand sanitizer allows you to maintain hygiene on the go, even when you don’t have time to run to the nearest sink. Disinfectant wipes come in handy for cleaning surfaces like your nursing scissors, stethoscope or even your hands when soap and water aren't immediately available.

No matter which field you work in, hand sanitizers and wipes are must-haves for every nurse.

5. Blue Light Blocking Glasses

If you’re spending hours at a time charting patient information or reviewing medical records on a computer, you’ve probably experienced eye strain. The blue light emitted by computer screens can be harsh on the eyes, especially during night shifts, which is where blue light-blocking glasses come in. These specialized glasses reduce the impact of screen time on your eyes, making it easier to focus and stay comfortable throughout your shift.

For night shift nurses, these glasses can be a lifesaver, helping them avoid headaches and fatigue caused by long hours in front of a screen. Nurses juggling multiple responsibilities—whether in the emergency department or in critical care—can rely on these glasses to keep their eyes in good shape while focusing on what matters: their patients. Plus, they’re a stylish and simple addition to your nurse bag that can help you feel more comfortable during those marathon charting sessions.

6. Cooling Towels or Face Mist

Healthcare environments can be fast-paced and high-pressure, which means you might be running from one patient room to another. That’s where cooling towels or a refreshing face mist come into play.

Cooling towels are lightweight, easy to carry and provide instant relief during particularly hectic moments on shift. Simply wet the towel, drape it around your neck and enjoy the cooling effect —helping you recharge both your body and mind during short breaks.

Face mists work similarly—they’re a quick and convenient way to give yourself a boost, especially when you’re feeling the heat of a busy workday.

Having these small yet effective essentials on hand can help keep you comfortable, focused and energized. Both items are easy to stash in your nursing bag, so you can always have them nearby.

7. Snacks and Hydration

In the hustle and bustle of patient care, it’s all too easy to skip meals or forget to drink enough water. But staying nourished and hydrated is key to performing your best throughout your shift.

Here’s how you can stay nourished and hydrated during your shift:

• Healthy Snacks for Quick Energy: Pack portable, energizing snacks like protein bars, nuts or dried fruit. Choose options that fit easily in your scrub pockets or nurse bag for quick access between patient visits.
• Easy-to-Pack Snacks: Opt for snacks that don’t require refrigeration, so you can carry them easily throughout your shift without worrying about spoilage.
• Hydration Essentials: Carry a large water bottle that’s easy to refill throughout the day. Hydration is crucial for night shift nurses to stay alert and focused.
• Take Small Sips Regularly: Instead of chugging water, sip regularly throughout your shift. This helps prevent dehydration while improving your energy, mood and mental clarity.
• Boost Energy and Focus: Proper nutrition and hydration keep you energized and sharp, so you can tackle long shifts and provide the best care for your patients.

Are you working a lot of overnight shifts? These are also great tips you can follow if you’re trying to stay awake for a night shift.

Staying Prepared With the Right Nurse Essentials

Preparation is everything for a nurse. From unpredictable shifts to unexpected patient needs, having the right essentials can make all the difference. It starts with durable, comfortable scrubs, but that’s just the beginning. Supportive shoes, hand sanitizers, blue light-blocking glasses and even snacks are all must-haves to keep you focused, energized and ready to give your best to your patients.

At Healing Hands, we’re dedicated to providing healthcare professionals with high-quality gear designed to enhance both your comfort and your performance. Discover our latest collections of scrubs, lab coats and scrub jackets so you're always prepared for whatever your next shift brings.