Behind every childhood cancer success story stands a host of amazing doctors, nurses, and medical professionals. Nurses are the MVPs of it all – doing far more for their patients than we’ll ever see or know. During this season of giving, why not give back to this tireless force of men and women bringing comfort and care to the most vulnerable?
‘Tis the season of giving! Whether you have a specific nurse in your life or are putting care packages together for local nursing staff at hospitals, hospices, and clinics, here are the best gift ideas for nurses.
8 Great Gift Ideas for Nurses
#1 – Compression Socks
Nurses are on their feet for just about the entirety of their shifts – shifts that can last 12 hours or longer. That can cause pain and swelling in the lower legs and feet. Nurses manage this by wearing compression socks. They can never have too many pairs! You can gift a premium pair of Bombas compression socks or less expensive pairs with fun and festive patterns.
#2 – Premium Drinkware
Insulated tumblers and smart water bottles are another great gift that nurses can’t have too many of. Iron Flask has a great variety of containers that will keep hot drinks and hot and cold drinks cold: classic water bottles, insulated travel mugs, tumblers with straws…you name it! Plus, they come in a nice range of chic colors and patterns.
#3 – Silicone Wedding Band
Because rings can cut through surgical gloves, many hospitals bar nurses from wearing their wedding bands and engagement rings. A great alternative is a durable and hospital-approved silicone ring! These are great for nurses and anyone who works in an environment where there’s a risk of rings getting snagged or damaged. Plus, they’re great for hiking, swimming, and working out.
#4 – New Scrubs
We don’t recommend you run out and buy scrubs without consulting the nurse in question. Certain hospitals may only accept certain colors of scrubs and you want to be sure that the style suits the nurse’s needs and preferences. Give a gift card to a the Figs online store so that they can pick out a flattering set of scrubs in the right size, color, and style.
#5 – Massager/Acupressure Relief
Any worn and stressed nurse will appreciate the relief that comes from a good massage. Buy a portable massage gun or a revolutionary acupressure mat to relieve pain and ease sore muscles. If you want to go for gold, a foot massager can be a game changer! Thankfully, they come in a range of price points to fit your budget.
#6 – Hydrating Lotion
Between the endless cycle of handwashing and sanitizing, nurses can suffer from dry hands, especially in winter. That makes a good hydrating lotion necessary! We would recommend buying a pair: a larger size for at home and a travel size to take with them on their shift. Steer clear of strong or added fragrances and focus on effectiveness.
#7 – ID Tags and Badge Clips
Who doesn’t love a little personalization on the job? You can find a variety of badge reels and ID tags that nurses can use with their hospital IDs or stethoscope. Amazon has a wide range of options with different colors and motifs ranging from cute and chic to seasonally themed and personalized. You can’t go wrong.
#8 – A Nursing Go-Bag
Nurses all need a good bag to keep their supplies and valuables. Clinical bags often look like insulated totes or backpacks: providing room for phones, laptops, portable charging stations, snacks and water, and must-have gear like stethoscopes, lip balm, lotion, and various diagnostic tools. They can be sleek and utilitarian or colorful and fun.
At the end of the day, few people deserve to be showered with thoughtful gifts more than nurses. Whether you’re splurging on must-have gear, tools for much-needed pampering and self-care, or an assortment of snacks and drinks, know that a gift for a nurse gives back to the best of the best. These are people dedicating their careers to caring for not just our kids with cancer, but people at every age and stage of life.
So, this holiday season, give back to the nurses you know. If anyone deserves it, they do!