When it comes to travel nursing, every professional should come equipped with their go-to set of tools. Despite all of the new technology, there's still some simple must-haves that make your life a bit easier through the course of your day. Here are seven necessities that new nurses cannot walk into the healthcare facility without:
Scrubs
What's a lawyer without the suit or a cop with a badge? Every nurse should have a few professional and well-fitting scrubs that can handle frequent washing. It's all about the utility and function of the scrubs. Since the occupation requires long hours, these clothes are designed to be comfortable. You'll be constantly walking, stretching, kneeling and bending, meaning the comfier, the better. Some people prefer to have more pockets where they can store medical supplies, while others like to keep a spare set of clean scrubs in their lockers in case they spill or stain the pair they're wearing.
Stethoscope
The stethoscope is one of a travel nurse's most vital tools. Listening to patients' lungs and hearts occurs during each physical assessment, so you don't want to be without a good stethoscope on hand. Though the equipment is relatively inexpensive, veteran doctors and nurses will tell you it's worth paying a little extra for a quality one.
ID badge holder
Instead of fumbling through your pockets to flash your badge in secured hospital areas, find yourself a retractable badge holder to makes things a lot easier. You can buy them online or at office supply stores.
Shoes
Many nurses are on their feet throughout the day. Like scrubs, comfort is key for footwear. Find a pair of shoes that fit comfortably, breathe well and, perhaps most importantly, have good support that will allow you to conduct your daily duties with ease. In the long run, "slider" type shoes and slip-ons are not recommended, as they end up wreaking havoc on ankles and knees.
Writing utensil
Although many records and charts have been converted into an electronic databases, travel nurses almost always have a pen handy. A black and red pen, a permanent marker and a pencil all make the must-have list.
Scissors
Nurses use scissors for a variety of patient care duties, such as cutting away dressings and cutting tape and steri strips to size. A good pair of scissors are rather inexpensive, and if you want to get fashionable, find one that matches your scrubs.
Watch
Indeed, most travel nursing professionals still use a watch to check a pulse. Be sure it has a legible second hand and good water resistance, since you'll be washing your hands all day long.
Wherever you end up as a travel nurse, don't forget to carry these items – they'll come in handy time and time again.