Part 2 of our 3-part series for new nurses
Walking onto the unit for your first shift as a nurse is a major milestone. While your education gave you the knowledge, having the right gear helps you stay focused on what matters most: patient care.
To help you start your journey with confidence, we interviewed Rosemary Ketring, BSN, RN, OCN, is a Clinical Research Nurse Coordinator at Duke University Hospital, and DAISY Award Honoree. We asked her, “What advice would you give to new nurses just starting out?”
Rosemary:
“I’d tell new nurses that it’s not always easy to take advice or be in a position where you’re being precepted, but it’s all part of the process. Those moments, even the challenging ones, are what shape you into a stronger and more confident nurse. Be kind to yourself, prioritize self-care, and stay open to learning,- it all helps you grow into the best version of yourself”
Check out our full interview here.
We’ve rounded up the six new nurse must-haves every nurse needs in their kit on day one.
1. Comfortable, slip-resistant shoes
Long nursing shifts demand supportive shoes. Investing in quality, slip-resistant footwear reduces fatigue and prevents accidents on the floor. When your feet are supported, you can focus on your patients instead of your discomfort. When researching the best nursing shoes for long shifts, look for slip resistance, arch support, and a roomy toe box.
Pro Tip: A Propelus CE Broker subscription gives you access to ExpertVoice which provides deep discounts on trusted-brand healthcare professionals love!
2. High-quality stethoscope
A reliable stethoscope is a fundamental tool for accurate patient assessments. Choose one with clear acoustics to help you monitor heart, lung, and bowel sounds with total confidence.
3. Watch with a second hand
Accurate timing is critical in a clinical setting. Whether you are administering time-sensitive medications or checking a pulse, a watch with a clear second hand is a must-have for precision.
4. Small notepad and retractable pens
Quick note-taking is often necessary when you are away from a computer. A pocket-sized notepad keeps your observations organized, while retractable pens are a lifesaver for preventing ink spills on your scrubs.
5. Clinical reference tools
Clinical reference tools for nurses — like a pocket-sized guide for lab values and electrocardiogram (EKG) basics — can be a lifesaver in fast-paced situations. Having these facts at your fingertips reduces stress and supports clinical decision-making.
6. Your Propelus CE Broker® account
Your nursing education does not end with graduation. Staying proactive with your continuing education (CE) requirements ensures you remain compliant and ready for your first renewal. Propelus CE Broker is the official CE tracking for nurses and hundreds of other licensed professionals, offering you a digital filing cabinet for your certificates, and proudly serves nurses nationwide! With a free Basic account, you can see exactly what you need to stay on track and move healthcare forward without the stress of manual paperwork.
Prioritizing your well-being
The demands of nursing can impact your mental and physical health, making self-care a necessity for a sustainable career. Remember, taking care of yourself is part of taking care of others.
Prioritize quality sleep to stay alert, and establish a consistent routine around your work schedule to maintain balance. Nourish your body with healthy meals, stay hydrated, and use deep breathing or mindfulness to manage stress in the moment. Taking time for hobbies and the outdoors will help you recharge and move healthcare forward. For more support, you can view the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA) self-care tip sheet.
Free CE in celebration of Nurses Month
CE Broker is celebrating you by making it easier to stay CE compliant. We are proud to offer a selection of 4 free continuing education (CE) courses all month long. Explore the free courses.
Missed part one of this three-part blog series? Access it now.