16 Perfect Gifts for Nurses
I know what you’re thinking: “What in the world are the best gift ideas for that special nurse in my life?” If you’re not a nurse, it can be tough to put yourself in their shoes and figure out what they’d actually want or find useful. But no need to stress—I’ve got your back!
As a nurse with over nine years of experience, I’ve received plenty of gifts that didn’t quite hit the mark. So, I’ve put together some ideas that I find useful and have been popular with my nurse coworkers. These nurse gifts are practical, thoughtful, and something we’d genuinely appreciate, making them perfect for showing your love and support! Check out my gift recommendations for nurses below!
1. Cute Retractable Badge Reel
Like these sparkly bows, a cute badge reel is such a good idea for a nurse gift. Not only is it practical, but it can also be a way to show off their style or personality at work. There are all kinds of retractable ID badge holders, from personalized names to funny memes; you can’t go wrong with this gift.
2. Mini Pen Attachment for ID Badge
Do you know how many times a nurse is in a patient room thinking, “S**t, I need a pen!” Probably 50x a shift. This is why a mini pen/marker combo that attaches to a nurse ID badge is a perfect fit for that nurse or nursing student in your life. Need to write a date on the Mepilex dressing?—No problem, got a marker right here. Need to jot down a critical lab value?— Sure thing, the pen is at your fingertips.
3. Stethoscope Name Tag
How adorable is this custom name tag for a stethoscope? I know, right?! From doctors or other nurses trying to run off with our stethoscopes, a customized name tag is the perfect gift for a nurse to help us keep track of our things.
4. Compression Socks
Y’all. Nurses are on their feet for sometimes 12 hours a day and can walk 4-5 miles in a shift. That’s why compression socks are a solid gift. Not only do they improve blood flow in our legs, but they can also help reduce leg and back pain from being on our feet all day. And it doesn’t hurt if they’re cute, like these Figs compression socks.
5. Lunch Box
Ok, for this, I had to add two types of lunchboxes. Firstly, the PackIt lunch box has built-in ice packs. So, for those days when the work fridge is packed or you forget to throw your lunch in the refrigerator, nurses won’t have to worry with a PackIt lunch bag. There are all sorts of shapes and sizes, too, for a nurse’s every need.
On the other hand, this Crock-Pot portable electric lunch box is perfect for nurses who want to go on break with their food waiting for them, ready and warm. This brand also comes in different shapes and sizes.
6. Massage Gun
If you haven’t noticed, nursing is a pretty physically demanding job. That’s why the special nurse in your life will surely appreciate a massage gun. With all that lifting and constant movement, they’ll love having a massage gun to help work out those knots and aches after a long shift.
7. Foot Massager
After a long shift on their feet, they deserve a little pampering. So, what better way to do it than with a foot massager? It can rub away those aches and pains, easing the tension from a hard day’s work.
8. White Noise Machine
Now, this can be an ideal gift for all the night shift nurses out there. Sleeping during the day is already a challenge, but at least with a white noise machine, they can drown out standard daytime sounds so nurses can get their much-needed sleep after a busy shift.
9. Weighted Eye Mask
Treat the hardworking nurse in your life to a soothing weighted eye mask! Perfect for when they need to unwind, promoting relaxation and better sleep. Whether they’re taking a power nap or relaxing at home, an eye mask is a thoughtful way to help them recharge and from their busy days. It’s the perfect blend of comfy and practical.
10. Funny Nurse Coloring Book
Everyone knows our jobs are stressful, so why not help a nurse de-stress by getting them a snarky adult coloring book? Because nurses love coloring, and we love snarky.
11. Coffee Subscription
Coffee. Need I say more? Coffee is a nurse’s love language. Give the gift that keeps on giving all year ’round, like a Trade coffee subscription!
12. Audible Subscription
Some nurses have a LONG commute to work. What’s a better way to pass the time of sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic than listening to a good audiobook? That’s why an audible subscription could be just the gift that nurse in your life was looking for.
13. Yoga Punch Card
Promote relaxation and stress relief with a yoga punch card. A punchcard will allow nurses flexibility to go to class at their convenience, making it easier to fit into their constantly changing schedules.
14. Aromatherapy Set
Create a calm and relaxing environment with soothing aromatherapy scents. Aromatherapy is known to have mood-boosting properties, which can be especially helpful for nurses dealing with frequent stressful situations.
15. Good Hand Cream
Did you know that nurses have to sanitize their hands every time they go in and out of a room? That much irritation really does a number on the skin. A good, effective hand cream, like L’OCCITANE, could be just the cure a nurse needs to help ease their dry, cracked hands from all the chemicals we come in contact with through our shift.
16. Phone Sanitizer
Nurses often come in contact with god knows what. And their phones can become a hotspot for these nasty little bugs. A phone sanitizer like this one can reduce the risk of germs spreading and charge your phone at the same time.
Final Thoughts on the Best Gifts for Nurses
Finding the perfect gift for a nurse in your life doesn’t have to be complicated. From practical ideas like a massage gun to a thoughtful treat like an aromatherapy set, there are tons of ways to show your appreciation to that special nurse in your life. Remember, it’s the thought that counts, and they’ll be so thankful that you were thinking of them.
What perfect nurse gift have you given or received? Let me know in the comments below!
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