Things Rehab Nurses Cannot Live Without!!

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I have just accepted a position doing short-term rehabilitation in a Rehab and Long-term care facility. I am excited to begin, and am wondering what tools/tips you all have to survive those tough days and even just your ordinary shift!

So far my list is ... coffee, water, stethoscope, and a pen :-)

What else should I have so I can be totally prepared to provide an exceptional patient care experience?

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

1. Scissors with blunt tips (for wound care)

2. Tape measure (to measure wounds, calf size, etc.)

3. Yellow highlighter (to highlight D/Cd orders on the MAR/TAR)

4. Red ink pen in addition to the black ink pen

5. Paper tablet or composition notebook for note-taking

6. Gait belt (to assist with transferring patients from bed to wheelchair)

7. Three-ring binder to keep master copies of important paperwork

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Specializes in LTC, assisted living, med-surg, psych.

Small mirror to assess heels for pressure ulcers without having to stand on your head :-)

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Small mirror to assess heels for pressure ulcers without having to stand on your head :-)

Super clever! Thanks, I would have never thought of that :)

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Specializes in retired LTC.

That little mirror idea is terrific!!!

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Specializes in Utilization Management.

Everything previously mentioned...plus a FIM reference guide somewhere in the immediate vicinity :yawn:

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Awesome list :) I may be working inpatient rehab and I'm primarily a psych nurse. Thanks for the info!

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