How to organize your gear in clinicals

[birdie86]

Hey guys!

I'm a second year nursing student in my winter semester. I'm doing my 3rd placement right now and am getting a little frustrated with the amount of things I have in my pockets at all times. I usually have to carry my steth, penlight, pens, notepad, a template document our clinical instructor has us fill out for each shift, some pretty hefty drug cards, my phone*/debit card for when I go on lunch (lockers are pretty far from the unit and we aren't really permitted to use the staff lounge to store food - so getting something to eat in our allotted break time has to happen fast and usually is bought from the caf, which is closer), a watch - which cannot be worn re: infection control, so goes into a pocket! - and usually a giant handful of gloves. *note: I never use my phone on the floor, just keep it in my pocket to have at break.

I just find I'm constantly checking all the pockets and things keep falling all over the place while I'm trying to do stuff... Anybody have any handy little tricks they use to keep themselves organized with all the gear? Would love to hear some suggestions!

[RN403, BSN, RN]

Try getting a clipboard that "opens" for storage. You can keep your clinical paperwork, drug cards, extra pens, and scissors in there until you need them. That alone will lighten up your pockets.

You also might try getting one of those watches that clip on to your stethoscope so that you don't have to carry an actual wrist watch around.

[Nateybird, BSN, RN]

A bunch of us in our program rock retro fanny packs...Amazon.com: X80® Neon Fanny Pack: Clothing. It will change your life lol.

[Chelonophile]

I was looking for something similar as I'm a huge organization fan. I found these pocket organizers on Amazon that sound like they'll do the trick for you, I'll link an example. They come in all different styles and colors as well, so browse around and see if this might be right for you. I plan to get some before I start my clinicals. Good luck!

Amazon.com: Nurse Belt Loop Organizer Pocket Pal Kit ~ Purple: Health & Personal Care