Must-Haves for getting through the shift.

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Specializes in None at the moment.

Hello!

I accepted a Clinical Partner position in the ICU (previous PCT experience in a large MICU/ICU unit) that I'm ecstatic about because I know I want to work in the ICU or CVIVU after I finish my BSN degree (in the early stages of pre-requisites).

This is my first hospital position after taking a few years off, and I'm looking for suggestions for items I should carry with me other than tylenol, tums, etc. because headaches and nausea happen, but I've got to keep moving.

Also, what are some suggestions (I'm per diem, so if they have a lockers, I doubt I'll have one. I'm not entirely sure?) for totes, (maybe I'll just use my backpack? Could get in the way at the desk) or other ideas to contain such items?

Thanks in advance!

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Specializes in MICU, SICU, CICU.

A small unscented hand cream such as gold bond or neutrogena. Hand sanitizers are very drying.

Chapstick. Hospital air is so drying.

A small jar of Vicks vaporub. Put a small amount in a mask when dealing with awful smells.

A precision screwdriver for repairing glasses.

A cup with a lid. Stay hydrated.

A warm fleece jacket for working nights.

Keep an extra pair of shoes and socks in your car, and if uniforms are not supplied, a set of those too.

There was a recent thread about how to eat when working nights that had great suggestions about what to cook and pack in your lunch.

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Specializes in None at the moment.
A small unscented hand cream such as gold bond or neutrogena. Hand sanitizers are very drying.

Chapstick. Hospital air is so drying.

A small jar of Vicks vaporub. Put a small amount in a mask when dealing with awful smells.

A precision screwdriver for repairing glasses.

A cup with a lid. Stay hydrated.

A warm fleece jacket for working nights.

Keep an extra pair of shoes and socks in your car, and if uniforms are not supplied, a set of those too.

There was a recent thread about how to eat when working nights that had great suggestions about what to cook and pack in your lunch.

Good stuff! Thanks! I'll definitely look for that how to eat when working nights thread. I'll be orienting on nights, but will work either shift when the need presents itself. Thanks again, icuRNmaggie!

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Specializes in None at the moment.

Rock on, thanks!

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