I have been anxiously awaiting acceptance letters from a couple of nursing schools. I think my hair is starting to fall out! I have also taken on a hefty load of classes this semester…more hair falling out. I like to read blogs on my study breaks (it helps to detour me from the mailbox, too). Badinage has a thoughtful post about gifts for nursing students:

“You can never go wrong with the following: a nice stethoscope, pretty earrings (studs!),  or a beautiful (water-resistant!) watch.  Classic.  I would include a fancy pen (black ink!) except that they disappear faster than you can ask “Who took my pen?” *

I’m really into giving people useful items.  Here are a few more ideas:

The Spoon Sisters ID Blocker

Love this.  Nursing students have to be careful that the papers they use and bring home do not have any patient identifiers on them.  I used to carry a black marker with me just for the purpose of marking out that data.  It was that or cutting it off the page.  It would have been great to have this stamp handy.

Koko Michelle Lunch Bag

A cute lunch bag.  A friend gave me this one for my birthday, and I use it all the time.  It’s small yet large enough to hold my breakfast and lunch.  Once empty, it takes up very little space in my tiny locker.   No more searching in the fridge for my food that has gotten pushed around.

Sonic Bomb Alarm Clock

Clinicals start early.  Those heavy sleepers might find this alarm clock useful.  There are also alarm clocks that roll away, fly, and test your math skills.  I personally love my light alarm clock.  There are many pricey models out there ($100+), but I use the Homedics SoundSpa Sunrise Gradual Light Alarm Clock Radio.  It uses your own bedside lamp instead of a built-in light.

Anna shoulder bag by Christy Studio

We have a lot to carry.  This bag is large and has plenty of pockets.

Of course, these are things that I would have wanted as a student nurse (and still do).  Any more ideas?”

I would throw in this orange stethoscope.

And this…