Things a New Med/Surg RN Will Need

[Cynthia.rn2011]

So I was just hired for Forida Hospital in Zephyrhills on the Med/Surg day shift (3 - 12s a week). This is my first time working in a hospital. What are some things I should have in my EDC (Every Day Carry) bag? When I worked in EMS, I always carried an extra uniform, extra pens, etc. What do you suggest?

[Lennonninja, MSN, APRN, NP]

Really good shoes, because you're going to be running all 12 hours! In my locker I keep my clipboard, stethoscope, and a pencil box with my favorite pens and Sharpie pens. Everything else is supplied by the unit (tape, flushes, alcohol wipes, bp cuffs, etc).

[thesundowner]

How do you like it so far? I'm going to the job fair they are holding on Friday. Can I ask how much they offered you?

[Pepper The Cat, BSN, RN]

Analgesic of choice! Tylenol, Advil, etc. A lab jacket of some sort, sometimes the air conditioning can get really cold when you sit down to chart.

[travelcat18]

I've been working in SICU for a month as a new nurse and I've noticed that I need pens, stethoscope, scissors, 2 hemostats, penlight and a carpuject injector...oh, and I've got one of those mini sharpies that attaches to my badge...very handy.

I also agree with the comfy shoes, a lab coat or scrub jacket for when you get cold and ibuprofen to keep in your locker.

Hope this helps!

[sbostonRN]

Scissors! Everyone always steals mine lol :)

Here's what I normally keep in my pockets or on my person: stethoscope, scissors, highlighter, dry erase marker (for pt info boards), Sharpie, two pens, chapstick, hemostats, paper tape, alcohol wipes. I also have a handy clipboard with storage inside, where I have a few more pens, calculator, post its, and granola bar for emergency hunger situations!