Did you know that nursing is the nation's
largest healthcare profession?
There are over 3.8 million registered nurses nationwide, with 84.5% of those registered currently employed as nurses. The federal government has projected up to 200,000 new nurse positions created each year until 2026.
What does this mean for you?
You probably know a nurse, or two, or three in your life—somebody whose life's work is caring for others. Healthcare workers are some of the most courageous, compassionate individuals, making holidays or birthdays an important opportunity to display gratitude, appreciation, and respect.
That being said, what are the best nurse gifts out there?
We've curated a list of special items that'll truly touch the nurse in your life. Keep reading.
Lend a Helping Hand With a Nurse-Inspired Headband
The reason for this rule makes sense—long hair can get in the way of important tasks like adjusting IVs, helping patients sit up, or assisting in any type of emergency. The less that's in their way, the better.
That's why a headband, or even
a surgical hat, is a perfect gift for any nurse you know with luscious locks.
Something that's specific for nurses is even better as it stands out from your average. Consider ones that have a healthcare worker theme, like EKG patterns, messages like Essential or Nurse, or stethoscopes shaped like hearts.
Gift Them an ID Reel That Makes You Think of Them
Every nurse wears an
ID badge, which means that every nurse probably has several ID reels—and could use another.
After all, they might get lost, or break, or get replaced after a long time of use. Nurses know it's never a bad idea to have extra ID reels in hand, and one that's special or unique is even better.
Nurses don't have many ways to stand out with their uniforms, so little accessories like this go a long way.
Any Nurse-Themed Jewelry Is Always a Good Idea
There's no lack of nursed-theme jewelry out there, so you're able to choose something that's fitting for your loved one.
If they like to wear jewelry at work but aren't comfortable with bracelets (for the same reasons as untied hair), consider something like an EKG rhythm
necklace and earrings set
that's subtle but statement-making. Other fun yet stylish options include a syringe necklace, nurse hat pendant necklace, or heartbeat necklace set. Each one says, "I'm a nurse!" in an understated way.
Of course, your nurse friend or family member isn't always at work, so you could also gift a nurse-themed bracelet if that's something you think they'd enjoy.
Or, you could get something meant to keep them safe on the job, like an evil eye bracelet. "Evil eyes" are meant to protect and bring good luck.
Unique AirPod Cases Are All the Rage
These days, so many people have AirPods.
They're the go-to accessory for many a person—and every AirPod case looks the same.
If your loved one has a set of AirPods they use constantly, consider gifting them with an
AirPod case
that no one else on their floor has. The next time they walk into the hospital as they're tugging their headphones out of their ears, they'll rest assured knowing none of their coworkers can mix up their case with another staff members'.
Options include cases with phrases like, "I am a mom and a nurse—nothing scares me," or heartbeat rhythms and the like.
Offer a Daily Reminder With a Personal Keychain
By having their keys close at hand as they drive to work, school, or events, you'll always be on their mind.
If they're a fan of being extra, consider getting a keychain with a collection of pendants, such as a syringe, nursing cap, stethoscope, etc. For your more minimal friend, get a subtle keychain that features just one unique pendant so as not to overwhelm their keyring.
A Brooch for Your Friend That Loves Pins
Another option for the jewelry lover and nurse in your life is brooches.
Brooches are decorative pins that act as jewelry and typically get pinned on the chest. They're the perfect statement maker for anyone who wears a coat often, like a nurse's coat—
a brooch
looks perfect near the collar line.
Your nurse friend could also get away with wearing the pin at work if it's subtle or out of the way.
Help Them Survive a Shift With a Multipurpose Bag
Many nurses like to pack some essentials before they step in for a 12-hour shift.
That
multipurpose bag
can include things like lunch or snacks, a small water bottle, any medications, hand sanitizer, a spare headband, or pair of socks, you name it. Whatever they need to get through a night or day serving others will make its way into this bag.
Offer them a place to store it all with a multiuse bag. This gift idea is also great for the practical person in your life, as they'll love something utilitarian. By giving them something useful, they'll know you appreciate their gift-receiving style.
Nurses Are Vital: Say Thanks With Nurse Gifts
Nursing students, practicing RNs, and retired nurses alike will love these tokens of your appreciation.
These nurse gifts are sure to reflect the gratitude you have for the special nurse(s) in your life—and serve as a reminder to them of the importance and nobility of their job. The best part is you can buy one for every occasion: their birthday, Christmas, National Nurses Day, you name it.
Click here to browse
our nurse-inspired accessories, sure to bring a smile to the face of any nurse you know and love. Petit Nursing Accessories is a one-stop-shop for all the best gifts for healthcare workers.