That time of year has come; your friend or family member has sacrificed so much for this moment: nursing school graduation. And that’s not including what’s next for them: the NCLEX. So why not surprise them with something they’ll actually want during this graduation season? Give them something that will make their transition from nursing student to nurse go a little more smoothly with our list of the best gifts for the graduating nursing student!
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10 Best Gifts for the Nursing Graduate
1. Shoes (or Shoe Orthotics)
Buy Gales For $89.95 "The FIRST PPE shoes for nurses!"
Buy Figs | New Balance 996 Unisex for $98
Nurses walk a lot, and comfortable shoes are key. Offer to take your nurse out to buy the shoes that feel most comfortable, or provide a gift card for a shoe store.
Again, shoes are particular for each person, so it’s better if you ask for their input on this practical and health-enhancing gift. These shoes from Figs and New Balance were a huge hit amongst nurses and ranked at the top of the list for best shoes for nurses in 2024! If you're looking for a lighter and more athletic look, try these NIKE Tanjun sneakers.
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2. Scrubs
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Scrubs are a must-have for all nurses. Scrubs get beat up, get dirty, and have to be comfortable for long 12-hour shifts.
Finding the perfect scrubs can be challenging but after testing scrubs from a variety of vendors, according to our nurses, the best scrubs for nurses are Figs.
Figs scrubs are on the pricier side compared to most other brands but for good reason. They have more positive reviews for comfort, style, and eco-friendliness… Most importantly, they are durable and maintain their integrity after months of wear and wash.
3. Watch With a Second Hand
Buy the Timex Women's Weekender 31mm Watch, $39.38
Beside scrubs, another must have for all nurses is a watch. Nurses will need a watch with a second hand for many things throughout their day.
You can expect to need it for checking respirations and heart rates as well as documenting the time throughout the shift. A watch is useful for practical, everyday time management. So surprise the nurse in your life with a this watch from Timex.
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4. Keepsake Box
Buy CafePress Definition of A Nurse Keepsake Box, $36.99
A nurse’s job is full of ups and downs. Why not provide something to remember the ups? A simple keepsake box. filled with encouraging notes from family and friends can go a long way in cheering someone up. Even better, nurses often get cards and letters from patients that they’ve helped. They can continue to store happy notes in this box, making it the gift that keeps on giving. Provide the nurse in your life with a box filled with positive and heartwarming messages that she can open after a long, stressful day. This one of our favorites, we especially love the quote!
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5. Stethoscope
Buy 3M Littmann Stethoscope, $199.0
Littman stethoscopes have been the trusted brand by healthcare professionals including nurses, doctors, and students since the 1960s. With its wide range of acoustics and options, Littman offers something for every nurse and this one is a great option for a new nurse.
But remember, nurses are pretty specific about the tools that they like to use, so be sure to ask your nurse which type is preferred, or give a gift card to purchase a specific stethoscope.
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6. ID Badge Card
Buy Complete Nurse Horizontal Badge Card Set, $19.99
Nurses have to remember countless medications, information, and tasks on a daily basis. Sometimes they need a quick reference guide during a challenging situation. These ID badge card sets are perfect for new nurses and seasoned nurses alike. They fit nicely with their badge and can be accessed quickly!
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7. Compression Socks
Buy HLTPRO Compression Socks for Women & Men (4 Pairs), $11.99 - $21.99
Nurses are on their feet for 12+ hours a day. Prone to varicose veins, swelling, and foot problems - compression socks are a must! A good pair of socks can make their shift a little more comfortable and help with blood circulation! Plus, these come in super cute designs to match any set of scrubs.
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8. Something Cozy for the Home
Buy ESNA HOME Luxury Aromatherapy Scented Candle, $37.80
A soft blanket, a tea collection, candles, a really luxurious pillow -- these are all gifts that will nurture the nurturer when times get tough. Nurses work extremely long hours with little time to rest. Creating a comforting and relaxing environment at home can help destress.
There are even gift subscription boxes for things like candles and tea, allowing you to make relaxation a monthly present. Help your nurse’s home become a retreat after a long day spent selflessly serving others.
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9. Portable Phone Sanitizer
Buy PhoneSoap 3 UV Cell Phone Sanitizer and Dual Universal Cell Phone Charger, $22.96
Cell phones are 10x dirtier than toilet seats! Working in healthcare, nurses are constantly exposed to different types of germs. Plus, no one wants to bring germs home, especially those with families. Help your favorite male nurse out by getting them this portable phone sanitizer - equipped with a charger.
The UV light sterilizer kills 99.9% of bacteria and germs. It also allows for charging through a universal USB port and acts as an aromatherapy diffuser.
10. Subscription to a Nursing Journal
Help your favorite nurse stay updated on important trends or emerging studies in their profession. Sure, this may not be the most inspiring or fun gift, and journal subscriptions aren’t cheap but there’s definitely some interesting content. American Journal of Nursing is a favorite amongst nurses.
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4 Bonus Nurse Graduation Gift Ideas
- Trip or Weekend Getaway
- Your nurse has spent so much time studying that an escape may be just what's needed. This type of gift can be something small, even a staycation at a hotel in your city! Be sure to chat with them about scheduling, but who doesn’t love a surprise trip to a lake, or a weekend yoga retreat? The NCLEX is next, so help your nurse escape for a couple of days before the studying commences again!
- Spa Gift Card
- A salon or spa gift card. Who doesn’t love a relaxing massage or stress-free (and FREE) pedicure? Surprise the hardworking student with a moment of relaxation before starting to study for the NCLEX.
- House Plant
- Studies have proven that having plants in the home leads to a healthier lifestyle. If your nurse doesn't have a green thumb to speak of, give a plant that's easy to take care of, like aloe or bamboo (aloe even has healing properties). As the plant grows, your nurse will fondly remember its significance and appreciate its beauty.
- Gift Card
Nurses can be fairly particular about their equipment and wardrobe choices. Like which compression socks fit the best, or which stethoscope is best for your position. Deciding on scrubs might also be limited to what is allowed in the hospital. Let your nurse decide for themself what they want with a gift card to their favorite place!
