Light for Night Shift?

[Nephron44]

Hello everyone!

I am looking for suggestions on a small flashlight for nights in the ICU.

I currently sometimes work nights in Tactical EMS, but the flashlights I use are 500 and 750 lumens, which works for outdoor work and clearing buildings, but is way too bright for up close work.

I am looking for a small but durable light that will give me enough light to see what I'm doing without being so bright that it wakes the patients. Lifetime warranty is a plus!

Also, would anyone recommend a red filter light? During my time as a tactical medic, we used red filters to preserve our night adapted vision and because red light is not as easily seen from the side/far away, which helped to not give away our position...maybe it will translate to the patient not being as bothered by the light?

I appreciate any suggestions you have!

Thanks!

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

Keep in mind that the ICU I work in is a little different than your ICU But this is my go-to, which you can find at Amazon for around $20: Fenix E05 Purple Flashlight 2014 Edition 85 Lumen LED Keychain

It has three intensity settings and can be turned on--and turned up--using just one hand. I keep mine on my keyring. I don't think it has a lifetime warranty, but it's very durable and cost-effective. It also takes AAA batteries which is more convenient than having to get watch/button batteries.

It's good for almost everything I do...one drawback though. Even on its lowest setting, it's a little too bright to use for neurochecks :)

[vampiregirl, BSN, RN]

Oddly enough, the flashlight I've found that works best for me I found for $1.00 in the sporting goods section of Walmart. I also picked up a $1.00 headlamp light there too that I keep in my bag of goodies (great for catheter insertions). Both are LED and so far have been vampiregirl proof.

I haven't found a need for a red light filter working as a nurse, I'm just careful to avoid shining the light in my patient's faces (unless of course I'm doing a neuro check).