As a night shift nurse, you are constantly on the go and need to be prepared for whatever the night may bring. Keeping a few essential items with you in your nurse bag can help you stay energized, organized, and focused throughout your shift. Keep reading to find out the 7 essentials every night shift nurse must have to maximize their time, efficiency, and sanity.
Here are 7 must-haves for every night nurse’s bag:
Caffeine
Night shift can be exhausting, and a cup of coffee or an energy drink can give you the boost you need to stay alert and focused. Keep a travel mug or a can of your favorite energy drink in your bag to help you power through the night. Be sure to monitor your caffeine intake and drink (caffeine) responsibly! Click the link or button below to go to Amazon and buy the Yeti Rambler, 20 Oz. It keeps your beverage at the same temperature throughout your shift. If you have to step away to take care of a few things you won’t have to come back to throw away a cold coffee.
Charged Cell Phone
Your cell phone is your lifeline to the outside world and can be a valuable tool for communication, organization, and entertainment during a long night shift. Make sure to keep your phone charged and within easy reach in your nurse bag.
Watch
Time can feel like it’s moving at a different pace during night shift, and it can be easy to lose track of time. A watch can help you stay on top of your schedule and make sure you are completing tasks and taking breaks at the right times. I recommend the Apple Watch Series 8 for those with an iPhone because you can not only keep track of time, but also set helpful alarms, keep up with alerts without having to physically pull out the phone, and its water resistant. Click the button below to view the listing on Amazon.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important for your overall health and can help you avoid fatigue and headaches during night shift. Keep a refillable water bottle in your nurse bag and make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the night.
My recommendation for a durable and aesthetic water bottle that will keep your beverage cold until the last sip is this Yeti Rambler 64 oz Bottle with Chug Cap. The higher volume means less time spent refilling throughout the day to meet your daily hydration goals. The chug cap means the mouth piece stays clean when you’re not drinking and it can be properly sealed in between sips to prevent leaks. It comes in so many bright and neutral colors to choose from. You will love this high quality addition to your nurse bag. Click the button below to view the listing on Amazon.
Pocket Snacks
Hunger can strike at any time, and having a few snacks on hand can help you avoid low blood sugar and maintain your energy levels. When working at night you might not have access to the cafeteria or to be able to have food delivered from your favorite restaurant since most things close down for the night. Keep some protein bars, trail mix, or other portable snacks in your nurse bag for a quick and easy source of fuel. Click the button below to shop Snacks on Amazon.
Lip Moisturizer
Dry lips can be a common problem during night shift, and using a good quality moisturizer can help keep your lips moisturized and comfortable. Keep a tube of your favorite lip moisturizer in your nurse bag and apply it regularly throughout the night. Click the button below to view lip moisturizers on Amazon.
Nurse Report Sheet
Keeping track of patient information and changes in condition can be challenging during night shift. A nurse report sheet can help you organize and document important information about your patients, so you can provide accurate and up-to-date information to the next shift. Keep a few nurse report sheets in your nurse bag and use them to record observations, medications, and any other relevant information about your patients. Click the link to go directly to RNDOCS123 Etsy shop and find yourself a detailed, thorough and cute Nurse Report Sheet to help you feel confident, organized and efficient during your hectic shift!
Conclusion
In summary, night shift nursing can be demanding and exhausting, but having the right tools and resources can help you stay organized, energized, and focused. Keep these seven essential items in your nurse bag to help you make the most of your night shift and provide the best possible care to your patients.
