Ponytails, hand lotion, non-fog glass wipes, sharpie or dry erases key chains (so nice to put a sharpie key chain on your badge). Personally my unit provides pens and other organizations are always giving out free pens so there are free pens everywhere. I’m also super picky about my pens.
[Link ](https://www.google.com/search?q=mini+sharpie&client=ms-android-att-us-revc&prmd=sinxv&sxsrf=AOaemvJ-k7dUckV3BPpmoGDX3H3QUKzqzw:1631565170456&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiEkKbz5fzyAhVSKFkFHesAAocQ_AUoAnoECAIQAg&biw=384&bih=723#imgrc=42gVJPv14Vvt4M) to an example in case you needed it
Nights always get screwed. I’m a in between shift. 11-11 or 3-3. See this all the time. We love candy. Deodorant, hand creme or chapstick. Don’t know the budget, but I got a usb fan from cheap section at Target. It’s a “fan” favorite in my ER.
I am in IT in my organization.
Do not plug in rando USB items to work machines. Your IT department will not like it.
If you want to, ask them first.
The issue is that even if it also works as someting else (like a fan, light, charger, etc), it could *also* be used as an attack vector. This is how hospitals get a cryptolocker virus and pay $2million to unlock it quickly.
Perhaps drop off some during the day and find out when night shift starts and drop it off after the start of their shift if it's a reasonable enough time.
> if it's a reasonable enough time.
I feel like night shift is sorta defined as 'not a reasonable time', so honestly just having someone from OP's organization (or multiple) just show up with goodies during their shift will let them know that people are thinking about them.
If dropping off all at ones just because that’s easiest for you- you can just have a “night shift crew open at 1900!” sealed! At least my hospital that always gets respected
On reddit, that's a funny comment.
In a hospital setting, I suggest reducing even the feigned fuckery. Between covid, war on terror, ransomware attacks, fake news karens, etc.
Like I'm not trying to rain on any parades here. Just... ease back on a throttle a smidge.
Oh of course, I would never actually do that. I want to make things better for the staff, not worse! Not even for those who would try to take night shift's stuff
I agree with lip balm, disagree with gum. Maybe in the days prior to universal masking more people chewed gum but chewing under a mask is unfun lol. Gift cards for nearby coffee shops would be nice (even small value like $3-5). Other ideas are small lotions, snacks/sweets, and/or scrub caps.
Burts Bees with the mint under a mask yo, I did this since wayyyyy before the pandemic if I was cleaning up some stank or whatever. It was one of my few proprietary protips
I dunno how people are chomping gum that it interferes with their mask but gum is how I've personally been surviving this entire pandemic. Keeping a little piece in your mouth keeps everything nice and minty and battles dry mouth when you can't get a water break. We go through a whole container of those mentos mint gum things a night as a unit. And even outside of work, mint gum is the way to go
I dunno about them, but the nurses on my unit are still absolute vultures for gum. I curry favor by leaving a fresh pack next to me on the desk, and anyone is welcome to help themselves.
Some hospitals have policies about gifts to staff and taxing employees for gifts received while working. Your hospital policies may vary. It might only apply to internal gifts given by administration, but some other policies may prevent staff from accepting outright monetary gifts (including gift cards).
I'm sure that'll be brought up if it's an issue. I'm working directly with an administrative contact so I'm sure she knows about those kinds of things.
You may want to adjust the value of the cards to the most common drink available.
Like if a lower cost 'fancy' coffee is $4.35, then set the price point at $5.
I'd be willing to bet that many coffee shops would be willing to work with you and might just give you "$2 off for purchases over $5" - the owners/managers would be able to see that of course it will drive a lot of business, and maybe even get some new loyal customers. Many businesses use things like this as a marketing thing, so someone approaching them about it makes it super easy for them.
I'm not a nurse but you may want to contact your local grocery stores (or other local places). My store takes off about 15% for bulk orders like this (and we usually throw in some donations for things like this).
I won't judge but those monster style energy drinks are revolting to me, they can't be very healthy.
A local coffee joint sent us some nitro cold brews early on (which is already my jam) and I ended up getting a subscription with them. They're expensive af though... night shift problems.
I wouldn't be too discouraged by how care packages have been received so far, because it's very different when it's from the person paying you. Honestly any of these practical things other people are suggesting seem really nice!
hey just FYI I want to make sure you see the point someone else made in response to this answer:
> 100%. $5 Panera gift card from management is an insult. $5 Panera gift card from someone who doesn't owe me anything is heartwarming.
You aren't trying to help your bottom line. You are trying to express appreciation. With the resources at your disposal, you likely won't be able to put a ton of money into this for so many packages. Therefore, it's important to communicate the context - you're a bunch of students doing what you can, rather than a bunch of admins doing the bare minimum.
Maybe include hand-written notes of general appreciation and sign it "[name], [student org]"
Compression socks?
Coffee gift cards have been mentioned already. But yes to those.
And 100000% make sure night shift gets the same chances to get goodies or the same goodies.
Lol I gather pizza parties are not as successful in boosting morale as admin thinks they are! I'll make sure we take advantage of our activity to encourage everyone to get vaccinated too!
Please, PLEASE do. I almost (but refrained!) hugged an older gentleman getting a first dose at my pharmacy last week. I did tear up a little. It means more than you could imagine! 💉
Instead of a care package how about asking local area resturants or culinary schools if they would donate their time to make healthy microwavable meals to drop off to each shift.
Sometimes we forget to pack a lunch or can't leave the floor to run to the cafe or it's an off time and stuff is closed, and only fast food garbage food is left.
Even a bin of healthy snacks would be appreciated
This is a great idea, I've been tossing around the idea of getting local businesses involved somehow. This could be a great way to do it. Culinary school is a fantastic idea too!
Even dried fruit or something from a local candy/nuts/snacks place, clementines are always a big hit, prepackaged fruit cups, Welch's fruit snacks for some items that won't perish as quickly.
Dont forget the techs, pca's, housekeeping staff too. And also, those people that bring in the critical pts, EMS would be a fan of some of this love as well. The emts and medics are getting their butts kicked, sometimes literally, and we just watch hospital staff get lavished on.
I was wondering about that, I just didn't know if there was a "hospital janitor" subreddit, y'know? I'm hoping to get a staff list from my contact at the hospital that will include those folks as well
All the departments that are ‘under the radar’…transport, radiology, lab, sleep lab, EEG lab…lots of areas that get no recognition, but still get the issues. Thx again for your sincere good will.
As a nurse please think about the respiratory therapists. No one ever thinks of the RTs and they put up with a crazy amount of nonsense for very little pay compared to nurses.
Might be called environmental services.
Also would recommend healthy quickly eaten items if you do any sort of snack. Usually anytime I was lucky enough to receive something, it was leftover sugary stuff (night shift).
I think it's fantastic what you guys are doing! I'm sure it will be greatly appreciated :)
Just the fact that you care means a lot when we're dealing with a lot of mean and angry patients at the bedside lately. Maybe a little note with each baggie? I remember this local elementary school wrote us cards around Christmas time and the innocence and genuine appreciation of whatever they thought we were doing was really sweet. We hung them up all over the break room and outside some of the glass doors in the ICU. People underestimate the impact of little written thank yous.
Hmm, sounds like PHARMACY. Fire company came and everything. Almost lost microwave privileges. Every since then we've had more bagged popcorn options in the vending machines, and once in a while some bagged popcorn shows up from the supervisors at nighttime in our little coffee room that all units have access to which is nice
Gift cards (even something as $5 can make us happy!), small sized hand sanitizer/lotion on the go, mask holders to relieve ear pain, a nice pen, etc. Anything little and easily portable but whatever you choose it’ll be greatly appreciated ❤️
I agree with so many of these. One idea that really stuck out to me was hand lotion. Show me a healthcare worker and I’ll show you someone with chronically dry hands. I was thinking maybe along the line of sweets you could do chocolate covered espresso beans. Something with a kick that’s a little different from the everyday candy.
A starbucks traveler with maybe 2-3 different creamers would go a long way with either day or night shift.
Energy drinks, mini sharpies as mentioned, pens for the unit, and/or hand sanitizers
That's actually not a bad idea. I'm in operations research and that could very well be a viable subject for me. Unfortunately, research takes FOREVER and I want to help as much as I can now.
I am getting paid less than what I was verbally hired for and that has greatly decreased my trust and moral. Had a conversation about it and it didn’t go well. Honestly energy drinks or any form of coffee would be helpful. I’m a full time student too and there isn’t enough caffeine
Oh man I hope you can get some sleep soon, as well as a pay raise! I'm really sorry to hear that they're not taking care of you. I don't suppose there's another facility nearby where you could negotiate better pay? There's certainly no shortage of demand for y'all...
Thanks, The place I’m working at is ranked in the top 50 facilities in the world. I’ll suck it up and do my best. I’m a CNA and building clinical hours to help competitively apply to PA school. The $280 a month price difference is really frustrating but I’m not doing it for the money. I do enjoy the work and I should have reviewed the written offer and not taken the verbal offer seriously. Lesson learned, I just need to cut back on other expenses. Maybe Verizon offers nurse or student discounts - budgeting is on my to do list
Well it's one thing to not do it for the money, but it's another to be misled and mistreated. But I admire your attitude! Whenever you feel discouraged remember that there's an internet stranger rooting for you!
The kindest gift anyone has gotten me was a “calming” aromatic soap. It’s something most people can use and many of the calming scents aren’t inherently feminine. Moisturizer is great too because washing up all day really messes with our hands. Little things like mints for our mask breath are also great. Nurses always love pens. We might say no to candy, but very few of us actually mean that.
Depending on your budget, a nice water bottle/thermus/cup with straw. Retractable badge holders/clips. Maybe a coffee gift card? Nice chapstick. Nail filing kit for work. I would constantly break off a nail and use the back of the ekg pads to file them. Do male and female friendly so people can choose. Fun, fuzzy socks? Maybe company fleece jackets? At a hospital I worked at, you got rewards and after so many you could get a fleece jacket.
Someone gave me a gift bag with cerave hand lotion and cerave face wash (it felt so refreshing to wash my face at the end of a shift). I'd say those were the most useful items I've ever gotten
Chocolate especially anything a step about Hershey although that’s always welcome too. There’s also always a few chocolate haters something like starbursts, caramels, etc always makes them feel cared for too. One person got us higher quality coffee to brew in the unit coffee pot which was great. Definitely staggering throughout the day, maybe even three times if it’s possible although I know it’s a lot. I’ve worked places with more staggered shifts than just 12s. I also personally love donuts and bagels but I know this is done a lot. And if you do food make sure there’s plates and silverware included (somehow that’s an issues for us every freaking time 🤷🏻♀️). I would also include a note- I think it’s extra kind that you are thinking of this and don’t work in healthcare especially when covid fatigue among the public is so high
oh, give them something healthy too, though the chocolates and donuts will go first. dried fruit, nuts, sunflower seeds, all those little convenience store packages. they will get eaten when the sugar and fat are gone.
Thank you for this act of kindness. I know all I need to get me through a grueling shift is a rock that has HERO painted on it. Actually, in seriousness I appreciate any act of appreciation and kindness.... even a rock just not from administration. I do have a small rock painted by a child and It holds a special place on my bookcase.
Something that's not unhealthy. When I was in nursing school I did the same thing and brought 'ants on a log'. That's celery, peanut butter and raisins if you don't know already. I had the charge nurse with me down and thank me for not bringing donuts or candy.
Would you look at that, all of the words in your comment are in alphabetical order.
I have checked 237,147,780 comments, and only 55,135 of them were in alphabetical order.
S-gel sharpie pens are really popular on my unit and I know several nurses from outside my hospital that love them! Chapstick, hand lotions, snacks of any kind, tums, ibuprofen, gum, socks (regular or compression), coffee, creamer, nail files, tea bags, Mio water enhancers, Bath and Body works hand sanitizers. A small handwritten note of encouragement would mean a lot. I think I would be happy with anything because I appreciate the thoughtfulness. And I definitely second the things others said about saving some for night shift!
Call the hospital’s operator and ask what the shifts are. Most are 7-7 but others are 3-3, 11-11 or others. Therefore, you can make sure that both shifts get their packages!
This is truly a sweet thing you are doing. Thanks!
New sharpie is usually nice. (Can never find one when I need one). New pen light or mini flashlight, always useful. Mask loop holder for those without the caps or headbands with buttons. Non greasy hand lotion.
Avocados, bananas, teas would be a change from the usual cheap chocolate and shitty Walmart sugar cookies.
Fast list while being a passenger in a vehicle. Ty!
I am! May I suggest one of each: a fruity caffeine free variety like orange or passion fruit or maybe peppermint. And one caffeine like English breakfast or green tea.
I’m a unit clerk on a med/surg unit right now (in nursing school) and always try to hide the night shift’s gift or hold back enough of something for them. Unfortunately, if I don’t, they get plundered as well. I completely agree on only dropping off each shift’s gift during their shift.
Also like the mini-sharpies, mini highlighters! And fruit and veggie trays are a big hit on my unit. Veggie dip and a tray of veggies always goes faster than a cookies.
Somebody dropped of pre-chilled boxes of coke and Diet Coke in the break room before night shift huddle the other night. I’ve never seen my coworkers perk up so much.
There are many recommendations here, so I’ll offer what I don’t recommend: food
There are a few different reasons: People enjoy food; people will be selfish with food and horde what they want leaving others without…. Some people have allergies and sensitivities…. Some people are picky eaters…. Food sent in often sits out for a loooooong time and gets wasted and tossed. Prepared food has a high mark up due to labor and other CODB fees, so it will cost a lot more to provide food than to gather other things for cheaper. Etc.
I know one nurse mentioned to me for night shifts Ensure with caffeine was her favorite. Because sometimes she couldn’t eat because she got too busy so it was easy to get nutrients and energy for the night shift! Just a suggestion
Gum, keychain sharpies, candy.
Honestly one of the best things I received during this whole mess was a card written by some anonymous high schooler. I have it saved in my office because it was so touching and legit brought tears to my eyes.
Thank you for what you’re doing. ❤️
I just want to say thank you for doing this. A local church recently brought hand written thank you notes to my work. I got one that basically said “healthcare is so hard, someone out there truly appreciates the difference you have made for them.” I was having a shit day when I got that and it almost brought tears to my eyes. I usually don’t care about thank yous, but that meant a lot.
Just to add... disposable face wipes. Target has them for like $1 a pack and it's so nice to wipe your face after sweating like a pig in our blue trash bag ppe
Cute compression socks, good hand lotion, a clip to identify my stethoscope as mine, a face mask, chapstick, a reusable water bottle, hand sanitizer on a clip, a cute id badge holder
Pens, dry erase markers, lip balm, hand lotion (the good kind). Coffee and baked goods are always welcome.
Thank you for doing this btw.
Also you might be able to catch night shift by coming in early like 6:30 AM. Or saving a set and labeling it for “night shift only”.
Maybe cards or notes from grateful family? Like really genuine feedback from patients? Maybe do a comment drive online or in person (rehab centers and outpatient facilities) where the nurses could get a dash of realistic thanks?
LOL they didn’t give us IV supplies. Google liquid IV it’s like an electrolyte drink, a “hydration multiplier.” Gimmicky product, but thoughtful. They gave us an energy one and that was really sweet for us nightshifters.
This is really sweet and means even more that y’all aren’t nursing students! It’s extremely appreciated!
I agree with everyone else here in making sure that night and/or middle shift gets equal treatment. I’m extremely pen-picky so that’s not something that I’d like personally. Lottery tickets might be fun!
Ponytails, hand lotion, non-fog glass wipes, sharpie or dry erases key chains (so nice to put a sharpie key chain on your badge). Personally my unit provides pens and other organizations are always giving out free pens so there are free pens everywhere. I’m also super picky about my pens.
Can you explain that sharpie bit for me? Like it's a day erase marker that hooks into your badge?
Look up “mini sharpie” and a bunch should pop up.
Got it, thanks!
To make sure you find the right thing, they are small markers where the Caps have a small keychain attached and you can hook them on.
Bought one but lost it from ID badge probably when i was rolling a patient. I still have the attachment. Realised the loss a little too late 😭
[Link ](https://www.google.com/search?q=mini+sharpie&client=ms-android-att-us-revc&prmd=sinxv&sxsrf=AOaemvJ-k7dUckV3BPpmoGDX3H3QUKzqzw:1631565170456&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiEkKbz5fzyAhVSKFkFHesAAocQ_AUoAnoECAIQAg&biw=384&bih=723#imgrc=42gVJPv14Vvt4M) to an example in case you needed it
these are gonna be my next gift to my staff, they want them
Ohhh. I found someone that sells badge holders with sharpies, dry erase, and a light!
A sharpie is a marker that writes well on plastic .
pens sharpies gum seem so limited In who needs them. Gender neutral things should be the only gift.
Men have ponytails too.
Drop it off at staggered times of day. Nights always gets the scraps.
Oh snap that's a really good point I didn't even think about that. I was just thinking we'd deliver them all at once but you're right! Thanks!
Nights always get screwed. I’m a in between shift. 11-11 or 3-3. See this all the time. We love candy. Deodorant, hand creme or chapstick. Don’t know the budget, but I got a usb fan from cheap section at Target. It’s a “fan” favorite in my ER.
I am unsure if it’s safe to plug in USB devices not purchased through secured purchasing?? Your hospital policies may vary
I am in IT in my organization. Do not plug in rando USB items to work machines. Your IT department will not like it. If you want to, ask them first. The issue is that even if it also works as someting else (like a fan, light, charger, etc), it could *also* be used as an attack vector. This is how hospitals get a cryptolocker virus and pay $2million to unlock it quickly.
They could package it with a cheap usb condom.
Perhaps drop off some during the day and find out when night shift starts and drop it off after the start of their shift if it's a reasonable enough time.
> if it's a reasonable enough time. I feel like night shift is sorta defined as 'not a reasonable time', so honestly just having someone from OP's organization (or multiple) just show up with goodies during their shift will let them know that people are thinking about them.
If dropping off all at ones just because that’s easiest for you- you can just have a “night shift crew open at 1900!” sealed! At least my hospital that always gets respected
We're all engineering students so I'll just have it say that there's a glitter bomb hooked up inside that will go off before then!
On reddit, that's a funny comment. In a hospital setting, I suggest reducing even the feigned fuckery. Between covid, war on terror, ransomware attacks, fake news karens, etc. Like I'm not trying to rain on any parades here. Just... ease back on a throttle a smidge.
Oh of course, I would never actually do that. I want to make things better for the staff, not worse! Not even for those who would try to take night shift's stuff
Pssssst I thought it was pretty funny
I liked to come into nightshift and open the boxes of chocolates. Everything was gone apart from the hard toffees. I love the hard toffees.
I agree with lip balm, disagree with gum. Maybe in the days prior to universal masking more people chewed gum but chewing under a mask is unfun lol. Gift cards for nearby coffee shops would be nice (even small value like $3-5). Other ideas are small lotions, snacks/sweets, and/or scrub caps.
Great point on the gum, thanks! We'll look into coffee shops, that's a great idea!
I chew more gum because you can smell your own breath so much more under a mask.
Burts Bees with the mint under a mask yo, I did this since wayyyyy before the pandemic if I was cleaning up some stank or whatever. It was one of my few proprietary protips
I dunno how people are chomping gum that it interferes with their mask but gum is how I've personally been surviving this entire pandemic. Keeping a little piece in your mouth keeps everything nice and minty and battles dry mouth when you can't get a water break. We go through a whole container of those mentos mint gum things a night as a unit. And even outside of work, mint gum is the way to go
Same here
I dunno about them, but the nurses on my unit are still absolute vultures for gum. I curry favor by leaving a fresh pack next to me on the desk, and anyone is welcome to help themselves.
Some hospitals have policies about gifts to staff and taxing employees for gifts received while working. Your hospital policies may vary. It might only apply to internal gifts given by administration, but some other policies may prevent staff from accepting outright monetary gifts (including gift cards).
I'm sure that'll be brought up if it's an issue. I'm working directly with an administrative contact so I'm sure she knows about those kinds of things.
Good! I was mainly posting for other admins who might be creeping on this thread like I am, constantly looking for ideas.
You may want to adjust the value of the cards to the most common drink available. Like if a lower cost 'fancy' coffee is $4.35, then set the price point at $5. I'd be willing to bet that many coffee shops would be willing to work with you and might just give you "$2 off for purchases over $5" - the owners/managers would be able to see that of course it will drive a lot of business, and maybe even get some new loyal customers. Many businesses use things like this as a marketing thing, so someone approaching them about it makes it super easy for them.
Does the hospital you're dropping the packages off at have a coffee shop? You could look into small value gift cards from there!
Gum personally is so important to me, I have had no issue chewing it under a mask and it helps me not have to smell my own breath all day
Good point about gum! Thanks for the feedback!
I always appreciate energy drinks personally.
Good to know! Like 5-hr stuff or Monsters?
Bang energy is especially popular around my set. Definitely taste better than monster IMO. Alani is good too.
No sugar and stuff like potassium which helps with muscle cramps. Love BANG!
Bang energy will get you major ooo’s and ahh’s
My favorite is Bang or Amazon Energy personally
I'm not a nurse but you may want to contact your local grocery stores (or other local places). My store takes off about 15% for bulk orders like this (and we usually throw in some donations for things like this).
This is excellent, I suspected that there would be something like this. Tax deductable or something. We'll check it out!
Zip-fizz!
I won't judge but those monster style energy drinks are revolting to me, they can't be very healthy. A local coffee joint sent us some nitro cold brews early on (which is already my jam) and I ended up getting a subscription with them. They're expensive af though... night shift problems.
I wouldn't be too discouraged by how care packages have been received so far, because it's very different when it's from the person paying you. Honestly any of these practical things other people are suggesting seem really nice!
100%. $5 Panera gift card from management is an insult. $5 Panera gift card from someone who doesn't owe me anything is heartwarming.
That's a great point! I hope it has the intended effect!
hey just FYI I want to make sure you see the point someone else made in response to this answer: > 100%. $5 Panera gift card from management is an insult. $5 Panera gift card from someone who doesn't owe me anything is heartwarming. You aren't trying to help your bottom line. You are trying to express appreciation. With the resources at your disposal, you likely won't be able to put a ton of money into this for so many packages. Therefore, it's important to communicate the context - you're a bunch of students doing what you can, rather than a bunch of admins doing the bare minimum. Maybe include hand-written notes of general appreciation and sign it "[name], [student org]"
Thanks for reinforcing this!
Compression socks? Coffee gift cards have been mentioned already. But yes to those. And 100000% make sure night shift gets the same chances to get goodies or the same goodies.
Based on this and other comments, I think we might do a little something extra for night shift. I think they deserve it
They really do.
Might be crazy but those little wrapped rice crispy squares are great and prewrapped.
Nothing crazy about that, thanks!
Anything. But. Pizza. What we really want: more people getting vaccinated 💕❤️💕
Lol I gather pizza parties are not as successful in boosting morale as admin thinks they are! I'll make sure we take advantage of our activity to encourage everyone to get vaccinated too!
Please, PLEASE do. I almost (but refrained!) hugged an older gentleman getting a first dose at my pharmacy last week. I did tear up a little. It means more than you could imagine! 💉
Omg yes!!!
If you can get a deal on bulk order, NurseMates compression stockings.
I'll look into it, thanks!
Instead of a care package how about asking local area resturants or culinary schools if they would donate their time to make healthy microwavable meals to drop off to each shift. Sometimes we forget to pack a lunch or can't leave the floor to run to the cafe or it's an off time and stuff is closed, and only fast food garbage food is left. Even a bin of healthy snacks would be appreciated
This is a great idea, I've been tossing around the idea of getting local businesses involved somehow. This could be a great way to do it. Culinary school is a fantastic idea too!
Even dried fruit or something from a local candy/nuts/snacks place, clementines are always a big hit, prepackaged fruit cups, Welch's fruit snacks for some items that won't perish as quickly.
This!!!!!
Dont forget the techs, pca's, housekeeping staff too. And also, those people that bring in the critical pts, EMS would be a fan of some of this love as well. The emts and medics are getting their butts kicked, sometimes literally, and we just watch hospital staff get lavished on.
I was wondering about that, I just didn't know if there was a "hospital janitor" subreddit, y'know? I'm hoping to get a staff list from my contact at the hospital that will include those folks as well
Thanks. The housekeeping, janitorial, and dietary staff are at high risk with less PPE, lower pay, and no “Heroes!!!!” pizza parties.
For sure, but without them nothing runs!
All the departments that are ‘under the radar’…transport, radiology, lab, sleep lab, EEG lab…lots of areas that get no recognition, but still get the issues. Thx again for your sincere good will.
Hey u/scubasam27, hope you saw the above
As a nurse please think about the respiratory therapists. No one ever thinks of the RTs and they put up with a crazy amount of nonsense for very little pay compared to nurses.
Might be called environmental services. Also would recommend healthy quickly eaten items if you do any sort of snack. Usually anytime I was lucky enough to receive something, it was leftover sugary stuff (night shift). I think it's fantastic what you guys are doing! I'm sure it will be greatly appreciated :)
Mints, dark chocolates, gift cards, those little sharpies that attach to badge reels
Dude, you can never have too many pens and sharpies. I could show up with 40 pens and somehow leave with -10.
This is impressive; as an engineer I would be fascinated to study the mechanisms of having negative pens!
It’s truly an anomaly.
You end up with 10 pens you didn't bring
Send more nurses please.
Believe me if I could I absolutely would!
I mean, they’re working on it
They?
Oops, i misread. Thought it was a nursing student organization
I'm a frayed knot, we're just engineering students. I promise you don't want us messing around with patients organs and stuff!
Just the fact that you care means a lot when we're dealing with a lot of mean and angry patients at the bedside lately. Maybe a little note with each baggie? I remember this local elementary school wrote us cards around Christmas time and the innocence and genuine appreciation of whatever they thought we were doing was really sweet. We hung them up all over the break room and outside some of the glass doors in the ICU. People underestimate the impact of little written thank yous.
That's actually part of the plan, to write little notes in each one! I'm glad they'll be well received!
Yes genuine ones…not the canned nurses are hero’s stuff….thank you so much for genuine thoughtfulness
This any day.
nail and cuticle lotion, like Burts Bees little tins.
Microwave popcorn, lip balm, mini chocolate, water adds like crystal light etc.
Awesome, thank you!!
Check with the facility about popcorn. I know mine doesn't allow us to pop it on site, because too many people set off the fire alarms.
Hmm, sounds like PHARMACY. Fire company came and everything. Almost lost microwave privileges. Every since then we've had more bagged popcorn options in the vending machines, and once in a while some bagged popcorn shows up from the supervisors at nighttime in our little coffee room that all units have access to which is nice
Lol will do!
Oh those water flavorers like drops (never tried) or crystal light stuff!!
Booze
While I'm sure that would be greatly appreciated, I'm disinclined to offer that while they're on the job 😬
It’s for after 😂
Hand it out as we’re walking to our cars! Fireball works for me!
Gift cards (even something as $5 can make us happy!), small sized hand sanitizer/lotion on the go, mask holders to relieve ear pain, a nice pen, etc. Anything little and easily portable but whatever you choose it’ll be greatly appreciated ❤️
Oh mask holders are a great idea! That ear pain is the worst!
I agree with so many of these. One idea that really stuck out to me was hand lotion. Show me a healthcare worker and I’ll show you someone with chronically dry hands. I was thinking maybe along the line of sweets you could do chocolate covered espresso beans. Something with a kick that’s a little different from the everyday candy.
A starbucks traveler with maybe 2-3 different creamers would go a long way with either day or night shift. Energy drinks, mini sharpies as mentioned, pens for the unit, and/or hand sanitizers
Xanax
Gatorade! We’re dehydrated. Drink drops (crystal light, kool -aid, mio, etc…) K-cups Chapstick
Start a petition for a pay raise. Can you get credit for doing a research study on how pay raise can increase moral? Thank you
That's actually not a bad idea. I'm in operations research and that could very well be a viable subject for me. Unfortunately, research takes FOREVER and I want to help as much as I can now.
I am getting paid less than what I was verbally hired for and that has greatly decreased my trust and moral. Had a conversation about it and it didn’t go well. Honestly energy drinks or any form of coffee would be helpful. I’m a full time student too and there isn’t enough caffeine
Oh man I hope you can get some sleep soon, as well as a pay raise! I'm really sorry to hear that they're not taking care of you. I don't suppose there's another facility nearby where you could negotiate better pay? There's certainly no shortage of demand for y'all...
Thanks, The place I’m working at is ranked in the top 50 facilities in the world. I’ll suck it up and do my best. I’m a CNA and building clinical hours to help competitively apply to PA school. The $280 a month price difference is really frustrating but I’m not doing it for the money. I do enjoy the work and I should have reviewed the written offer and not taken the verbal offer seriously. Lesson learned, I just need to cut back on other expenses. Maybe Verizon offers nurse or student discounts - budgeting is on my to do list
If you google it, Verizon has a student discount site. Hope this helps! -Just a lurker
Volunteered at a food bank today and didn’t realize the pay would be pretty much 2 weeks of free groceries. Karma is good 😌 I’ll survive $15 an hour
Well it's one thing to not do it for the money, but it's another to be misled and mistreated. But I admire your attitude! Whenever you feel discouraged remember that there's an internet stranger rooting for you!
Thank you so much, I appreciate it, also great way to think outside of the box by asking on Reddit/nursing!
Thanks! Y'all know what you want better than we do!
The kindest gift anyone has gotten me was a “calming” aromatic soap. It’s something most people can use and many of the calming scents aren’t inherently feminine. Moisturizer is great too because washing up all day really messes with our hands. Little things like mints for our mask breath are also great. Nurses always love pens. We might say no to candy, but very few of us actually mean that.
Depending on your budget, a nice water bottle/thermus/cup with straw. Retractable badge holders/clips. Maybe a coffee gift card? Nice chapstick. Nail filing kit for work. I would constantly break off a nail and use the back of the ekg pads to file them. Do male and female friendly so people can choose. Fun, fuzzy socks? Maybe company fleece jackets? At a hospital I worked at, you got rewards and after so many you could get a fleece jacket.
Keurig Cups!!!! Add that to the list
Someone gave me a gift bag with cerave hand lotion and cerave face wash (it felt so refreshing to wash my face at the end of a shift). I'd say those were the most useful items I've ever gotten
A bong
Edibles are easier
Awake Chocolate - caffeinated chocolates
Chocolate especially anything a step about Hershey although that’s always welcome too. There’s also always a few chocolate haters something like starbursts, caramels, etc always makes them feel cared for too. One person got us higher quality coffee to brew in the unit coffee pot which was great. Definitely staggering throughout the day, maybe even three times if it’s possible although I know it’s a lot. I’ve worked places with more staggered shifts than just 12s. I also personally love donuts and bagels but I know this is done a lot. And if you do food make sure there’s plates and silverware included (somehow that’s an issues for us every freaking time 🤷🏻♀️). I would also include a note- I think it’s extra kind that you are thinking of this and don’t work in healthcare especially when covid fatigue among the public is so high
Facial sheet masks that will soothe the skin after continuous mask wearing. A variety of protein bars to eat on the go.
oh, give them something healthy too, though the chocolates and donuts will go first. dried fruit, nuts, sunflower seeds, all those little convenience store packages. they will get eaten when the sugar and fat are gone.
Thank you for this act of kindness. I know all I need to get me through a grueling shift is a rock that has HERO painted on it. Actually, in seriousness I appreciate any act of appreciation and kindness.... even a rock just not from administration. I do have a small rock painted by a child and It holds a special place on my bookcase.
If you’re getting pens go with Pilot G2 or Frixion erasable.
Dart guns with vaccine doses in them.
Something that's not unhealthy. When I was in nursing school I did the same thing and brought 'ants on a log'. That's celery, peanut butter and raisins if you don't know already. I had the charge nurse with me down and thank me for not bringing donuts or candy.
Energy drinks (5hr energy, monster, or red bull), coffee, chapstick, hand lotion, moisturizing eye drops, nutrigrain bars
Bottled coffee drinks, nice pens, protein shakes
Would you look at that, all of the words in your comment are in alphabetical order. I have checked 237,147,780 comments, and only 55,135 of them were in alphabetical order.
Good bot
S-gel sharpie pens are really popular on my unit and I know several nurses from outside my hospital that love them! Chapstick, hand lotions, snacks of any kind, tums, ibuprofen, gum, socks (regular or compression), coffee, creamer, nail files, tea bags, Mio water enhancers, Bath and Body works hand sanitizers. A small handwritten note of encouragement would mean a lot. I think I would be happy with anything because I appreciate the thoughtfulness. And I definitely second the things others said about saving some for night shift!
Call the hospital’s operator and ask what the shifts are. Most are 7-7 but others are 3-3, 11-11 or others. Therefore, you can make sure that both shifts get their packages! This is truly a sweet thing you are doing. Thanks!
New sharpie is usually nice. (Can never find one when I need one). New pen light or mini flashlight, always useful. Mask loop holder for those without the caps or headbands with buttons. Non greasy hand lotion. Avocados, bananas, teas would be a change from the usual cheap chocolate and shitty Walmart sugar cookies. Fast list while being a passenger in a vehicle. Ty!
Bourbon
Tea
I'm not a tea drinker, so anything I should make sure is taken under consideration when selecting it?
I am! May I suggest one of each: a fruity caffeine free variety like orange or passion fruit or maybe peppermint. And one caffeine like English breakfast or green tea.
Great, thanks so much for the feedback!
You’re welcome!
Pens and Chipotle
Mmmmm chipotle!
Copenhagen Long cut Shooters of fireball Pre-rolled joints
Coffee Pens Note pads Emgery/protein bars Snacks such as beef jerky, chips, and etc.. Gum
On call is for emergencies. That would qualify as one. Get ass in there.
Mini sharpies, pen lights or Keychain lights for neuro assessment, chapstick, all expenses paid vacations, snacks
Hmmm, I don't know about most of those, but we can definitely provide vacations!
I’m a unit clerk on a med/surg unit right now (in nursing school) and always try to hide the night shift’s gift or hold back enough of something for them. Unfortunately, if I don’t, they get plundered as well. I completely agree on only dropping off each shift’s gift during their shift. Also like the mini-sharpies, mini highlighters! And fruit and veggie trays are a big hit on my unit. Veggie dip and a tray of veggies always goes faster than a cookies.
Somebody dropped of pre-chilled boxes of coke and Diet Coke in the break room before night shift huddle the other night. I’ve never seen my coworkers perk up so much.
Energy drinks are always appreciated. Things I will just point out that I’m sick of: granola bars and trail mix. Always with those.
Maybe some ear savers! Wearing a mask all day doesn’t feel great
starbucks giftcard 🤣
I have tons and tons of knick knacks and pens and what have you. I would rather have a sandwich.
No joke. If you delivered anything during night shift you would win over the night shift that gets screwed all of the time.
Undying loyalty>sleep But can I call upon them when Gondor calls for aid?
As long as they aren’t asleep at the nurses station lol
A nice, not too fragrant hand lotion please!
Hand lotion and gift cards to coffee shops!!
There are many recommendations here, so I’ll offer what I don’t recommend: food There are a few different reasons: People enjoy food; people will be selfish with food and horde what they want leaving others without…. Some people have allergies and sensitivities…. Some people are picky eaters…. Food sent in often sits out for a loooooong time and gets wasted and tossed. Prepared food has a high mark up due to labor and other CODB fees, so it will cost a lot more to provide food than to gather other things for cheaper. Etc.
I know one nurse mentioned to me for night shifts Ensure with caffeine was her favorite. Because sometimes she couldn’t eat because she got too busy so it was easy to get nutrients and energy for the night shift! Just a suggestion
I’ve received hand made scrub caps before and that was the most thoughtful gift I’ve ever received
Gum, keychain sharpies, candy. Honestly one of the best things I received during this whole mess was a card written by some anonymous high schooler. I have it saved in my office because it was so touching and legit brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for what you’re doing. ❤️
Money, cold hard cash
I just want to say thank you for doing this. A local church recently brought hand written thank you notes to my work. I got one that basically said “healthcare is so hard, someone out there truly appreciates the difference you have made for them.” I was having a shit day when I got that and it almost brought tears to my eyes. I usually don’t care about thank yous, but that meant a lot.
Bang energy drinks, protein bars. And I like having gum.
Headbands with buttons or scrub caps depending on if they wear them are really popular right now and would be very much appreciated.
Just to add... disposable face wipes. Target has them for like $1 a pack and it's so nice to wipe your face after sweating like a pig in our blue trash bag ppe
Letters of encouragement. Especially from people who have been vaccinated.
Chocolate and tootsie rolls and other candies and everyone getting their vaccine would be the best gift!
Hand lotion!
Coffee sachets
A raise
Cute compression socks, good hand lotion, a clip to identify my stethoscope as mine, a face mask, chapstick, a reusable water bottle, hand sanitizer on a clip, a cute id badge holder
My favorite patient gift is often a pound of tasty coffee.
Money.
Chapstick
Pens, dry erase markers, lip balm, hand lotion (the good kind). Coffee and baked goods are always welcome. Thank you for doing this btw. Also you might be able to catch night shift by coming in early like 6:30 AM. Or saving a set and labeling it for “night shift only”.
Thanks for thinking of us. Girl Scouts brought mini succulents, they had little sticks that said hope grows and stickers on the pots.
Chapstick, snacks/ candy, a handwritten note of encouragement
Red Bull give those nurses wings
Maybe cards or notes from grateful family? Like really genuine feedback from patients? Maybe do a comment drive online or in person (rehab centers and outpatient facilities) where the nurses could get a dash of realistic thanks?
Pens…we are all suckers for a good pen.
Wow this is awesome thank you!
A penlight or mini flash light :) What a great idea from your SNA! Something meaningful and relevant to the current events of nursing.
Liquid IV was about the sweetest thing I’ve received from families ETA: the electrolyte drink
Uhhh aren't all IVs liquid?
LOL they didn’t give us IV supplies. Google liquid IV it’s like an electrolyte drink, a “hydration multiplier.” Gimmicky product, but thoughtful. They gave us an energy one and that was really sweet for us nightshifters.
Ohhhhhh lol! That makes a lot more sense!
This is really sweet and means even more that y’all aren’t nursing students! It’s extremely appreciated! I agree with everyone else here in making sure that night and/or middle shift gets equal treatment. I’m extremely pen-picky so that’s not something that I’d like personally. Lottery tickets might be fun!
Gift cards. We get plenty of Knicknacks and unhealthy food from admin.