38+ Unique Gifts for Nurses In 2023

Looking for a comprehensive list of gifts for nurses? Maybe someone graduated nursing school, your nurse preceptor or nurse mentor? We’ve rounded up some great nurse gifts so you have various choices for every budget and style.

Nurses are some of the most hard-working and compassionate people out there. They put in long hours, care for patients’ needs, and are often undervalued. That’s why it is essential to show them a little extra appreciation with a unique gift.

Whether shopping for a nurse or nursing student or wanting to show appreciation for someone special, this guide will help you find the perfect gift. I have put together a list of unique gifts for nurses that they will love and appreciate.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gift For Nurses

You cannot just choose any gift for nurses that you want. There are certain key factors that you need to consider when choosing a gift for nurses.

  • Usefulness: Find a gift that is helpful to the nurse you are buying for. Think of something they can use while working, such as a medical-grade pen light or stethoscope.
  • Personalization: Put thought into the gift and personalize it with their name, initials, or even a quote that holds special meaning for them.
  • Quality: It is always essential, especially regarding medical supplies. Make sure you choose a high-quality product that will last them for years.
  • Cost: Is this gift something affordable? Or is this gift something expensive that they usually wouldn’t buy for themselves?

Here Are The Best Gifts for Nurses To Show Them You Care

Whether you are buying for a nurse new to the field or a 30-year veteran, this list of great gifts for nurses can help you find something special to show your appreciation.

Gifts for the Shift: Inexpensive Gifts for Nurse Coworkers

  1. Nicav Canvas Tote Bags for Women, Large Utility Tote Bags with Pockets Zip Top for Teachers Nurses Work
    $23.96 $19.96
    • Stylish Tote. Vintage canvas surface contrasting with faux suede bottom design
    • Multi-pockets Handbag. 6 exterior slip pockets, zippered internal pocket, organizer for pens and cards
    • Functional Shoulder Bag. Built-in interior padded sleeve holds 12 inches laptop
    • Roomy Bookbag. Dimensions with 18.5 x 13.0 x 6.2 inches. Carrying up to 18 liters or 12 lbs
    • Versatile Woman Purse. Perfect for everyday work, commute, school, college, nursing and travel


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    11/15/2024 12:23 am GMT
  2. Pursetti Utility Tote with Pockets & Compartments-Perfect Nurse Tote Bag, Teacher Bag, Work Bags for Women & Craft Tote (Medium, Purple Circle)
    $24.97
    • Carry Your Daily Essentials in One Tote Bag-Whether you are a teacher, nurse, working woman or a soccer mom, this will be your go-to utility tote bag to stay organized. Everything is at your fingertips. No need to carry multiple utility bags and dig around to find your keys or lipstick. The cute tote bags for women comes in both Medium or Large and in multiple patterns to choose from. When in doubt, choose the large size. Either size won’t look too big and awkward.


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    11/15/2024 01:02 am GMT
  3. Nurse Mates Ultimate Bag, Hope for The Cure
    $49.95
    • Multiple storage and document compartments
    • Multiple storage pockets and compartments
    • Measures 13 x 9 x 14
    • Water resistant fabric, heavy duty zippers


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    11/15/2024 01:18 am GMT

Portable Massager

Many nurses work long shifts walking the halls, lifting patients, and putting their bodies in high-stress situations. These working conditions can lead to aching backs, legs, feet, and various other parts of your body. A personal massager is a perfect gift to help a nurse relieve the tension built up during a shift. Since it’s small and portable, it can even be used at work if there are a few spare moments to take a break. This is one that you might want to make sure you get for the whole shift otherwise you might now have enough massaging power to go around.

Tumblers

Hydration is vital to stay in good health. Unfortunately, it can be difficult for nurses to find time to fill up on the h20 when working a 12-hour shift. Sometimes having a special cup (with a lid) can help make this task a little easier. Consider it a challenge to drink at least 64 ounces of water each shift. If you have a nice 16 or 20 oz tumbler that can be just 3 or 4 refills. Keeping water at the nurse’s station will help keep you more alert and flush out any of that extra salt you might have consumed when raiding the snack pantry.

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Novelty Nurse Pens

Pens are coveted among nurses. Unique pens with nursing twists are the cream of the crop. I’m not saying they’re going to use it to chart with everyday, because let’s face it, a pill-shaped pen is going to be a little awkward to write with. However, it will hold a place of honor and will definitely be a conversation starter when the sign checks and any other task that a super cute nurse pen might show up.

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11/14/2024 08:07 pm GMT

Practical Gifts for Nurses

Stethoscope

Nurses use stethoscopes daily. It’s an essential tool for nurses and other medical professionals. You can find our comprehensive list of the best stethoscopes for nurses or consider Getting a personalized engaged stethoscope for the nurse in your life with their name engraved. It will make a great gift and be a memorable way to show them you care.

38+ Unique Gifts for Nurses In 2023 - 31e0Iq8uuwL. SL500

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Digital Stethoscope

Nurses don’t have to be stuck with traditional stethoscopes anymore. A digital stethoscope is a great gift for any nurse looking to take their practice to the next level. It offers superior sound quality and helps nurses record, replay, and share audio files quickly and easily. Digital stethoscopes can have 40x amplification, making them perfect for any medical professional. Our favorite is the Eko Core Digital Stethoscope, but many great electronic stethoscopes exist.

You can also use code NERDYNURSE to save $20 on an Eko stethoscope.

Protective Equipment

We all know how important it is to wear PPE while working in health care. Show your appreciation by getting the nurse in your life some protective equipment they can use on the job, such as N95 face masks, clothing, gloves, face shields, goggles, respirators, and other equipment to protect front-line workers from injury, infection, or illness.

Mask Extender/Clips

Wearing a mask continuously for long periods can cause neck and ear pain. A mask extender or clip is a great gift that helps nurses wear masks without causing pain or discomfort. It clips the straps to keep them in place, so they don’t have to adjust throughout the day constantly.

Thermal Blanket

Nurses are often on the go and don’t always have time to rest. A thermal blanket is a great gift to help them stay warm and comfortable during long shifts. Look for one that is made of lightweight, breathable material so they can use it without feeling overheated or uncomfortable.

Paid Course

What better way to help a student nurse than with a paid course? Sign them up for an online class or workshop related to their career so they can stay up-to-date on the latest trends and advancements. It’s a great way to show appreciation and help your nurse friend continue learning. One recommendation I give to nurses at any stage of their career is the FreshRN All Access Pass.

FreshRN - All Access Pass

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  • Newly Licensed Nurses ➡️ Dive deep into the nuance of acute care nursing.
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  • International Nurses ➡️ Familiarize yourself with U.S. nursing care practices and norms from home - wherever that may be!
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Personalized Apron

Show your appreciation with a personalized apron with their name or initials. They can wear it proudly in the hospital, clinic, or at home while cooking. Personalized aprons also make a thoughtful gift for any nurse who loves cooking or baking.

New Nurse Survival Kit

Do you know someone who has just become a nurse? Get them a new nurse survival kit with everything they need to get started. It can include things like medical supplies, books, and other essentials. They will be sure to appreciate your thoughtfulness. We even have instructions on how to make your own.

Bag for Nurses

As a nurse, I know packing everything you need for the day can be daunting. Give your nurse friend a bag designed explicitly with nurses in mind. It should have plenty of pockets and compartments to store all their supplies, along with comfortable shoulder straps and wheels so they can easily move it around. Here are some of my favorite work bags for nurses. I also have a great recommendation for the best nurse backpack for work.

Best Nurse Backpack for Work – Knack Backpack Review

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I cannot recommend this backpack enough. I wish I had it in nursing school. This bag is perfect for taking all your work essentials and fully embracing “One bag life.” If you travel for conferences, this is the perfect back for a 2-3 trip and will save you from having to carry rolling luggage.

Nurse Coffee Mugs

I love coffee, and I’m sure many other nurses do, too. Get your favorite nurse a personalized mug with their name, favorite quote, or something funny to make them smile. It is the perfect gift for nurses needing a little morning pick-me-up or during a long shift. My favorites are funny nurse mugs or designs that support and encourage.

personalized nurse mug
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Coffee Makers

While working a 12-hour shift, you cannot just stop and go to a coffee shop every time you need a pick-me-up. Get your nurse friends a good coffee maker so they can enjoy a hot cup of Joe whenever the need arises. Many machines have various features, so you can find one that fits their lifestyle and budget perfectly. This way, you can also ensure they remain energized and alert on the job.

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One thing that always makes going to work something to look forward to is when I buy myself a gourmet coffee drink. Right after college, I was still trying to grapple with the whole getting-up-at-5 am- thing, so I decided to buy myself a delicious and expensive coffee drink each day on my way to work.

A $5 mocha-chip Frappuccino was all it took to be excited to get out of bed and head to work. As I got older and tried to instill the habit of living on a “budget,” I realized that maybe I shouldn’t do this every day…so I started making drip coffee. It got the job done but wasn’t nearly as exciting! So, needless to say, a coffee gift card would be a perfect gift for nurses who enjoy coffee.

Nurse Coloring Books

Sometimes, you must do something to take your mind off work. Coloring books make an excellent gift for nurses who need an outlet from the stress of their jobs. Look for ones specifically designed for nurses with illustrations of medical symbols and images.

Nurse Life: A Snarky Adult Coloring Book
$6.99
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11/15/2024 12:18 am GMT

Infusion Water Bottle

Nurses need to stay hydrated. Because if they don’t drink enough water, they can become easily dehydrated. An infusion water bottle allows them to infuse fruits or vegetables in their water, making it more flavorful. This way, they can stay hydrated while also getting a bit of flavor and nutrition.

Foot Massager

After running around for a 12-hour shift, nurses must take care of their feet. A foot massager is a great way to soothe sore, tired feet and help the nurse in your life relax after a long day. A foot massager helps to increase circulation, reduce inflammation, and even alleviate some of the pain associated with plantar fasciitis so a nurse can face each new shift with well-rested and pampered feet.

Blessings Cards for Nurses

Sometimes, what they need is just a simple appreciation of their work. Give them blessing cards with encouraging messages that show your appreciation for their daily hard work.

Cell-Phone Sanitizer

Cell phones are 10 times dirtier than toilet seats. Nurses are exposed to germs and bacteria all day, so they need to keep their phones clean. Give your nurse friends a cell phone sanitizer as a gift so they can easily disinfect their phone multiple times daily. The UV light sterilizer kills 99.9% of bacteria and germs in just six minutes.

Blue-Light Blocking Glasses

Some nurses have to work long hours in front of a computer, so to prevent eye strain or fatigue, get them a pair of blue-light-blocking glasses. These glasses help reduce glare and the effects of blue light from digital devices like phones, laptops, and tablets. Plus, they come in stylish frames that your nurse friend can wear all day. Blue light-blocking glasses are a great addition to any nurse’s lifestyle.

Neck Pillow

You cannot go wrong with a neck pillow. Nurses often have to sit for long periods, and having a neck pillow makes it much more comfortable. You can find ones with memory foam that mold perfectly to your nurse friend’s neck. And if you want, you can get them one with their initials embroidered on the side – they’ll love it.

Portable Charger or Backup Battery 

We know how important it is for nurses to stay connected, so why not give them a portable charger as a gift? This way, they will never have to worry about running out of battery while on the job. Plus, you can find ones with multiple USB ports so they can charge more than one device at once.

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11/14/2024 10:23 pm GMT

A Care Package

Put together a care package filled with snacks, hand sanitizer, lip balm, tissues, lotion, etc., and include a handwritten note expressing your gratitude. This small gesture will surely be appreciated by any nurse who receives it.

Organizational Gifts for Nurses

A Nursing Journal

It is great for any nurse who loves to write down their thoughts or jot down ideas throughout the day. A nursing journal allows them to keep track of important patient information, document tasks, and goals, and even draw diagrams of medical procedures when necessary. Plus, journals come in a wide range of styles so you can find one that matches their personality perfectly.

Self Inking Rubber Stamps

After checking vitals and writing medical notes, nurses spend a lot of time filling out forms and reports. Get them a self-inking rubber stamp to make their job easier. With this, they can easily mark documents with the official hospital seal, signature, or other important details without having to write them out every single time.

Nurse Calendars

Give your nurse friends a desk calendar to keep track of their shifts and important dates. You can find ones that feature beautiful illustrations of nurses at work or inspiring quotes to help them get through the day. This way, they have something nice to look at while on the job.

Bookmarks

Nursing students read a lot, so give them something to make studying easier. A bookmark is a perfect way to keep their place in a book and ensure they never forget where they left off. You can find ones with funny messages or inspiring quotes that will surely put a smile on their face!

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Pens Box

When I was in nursing school, my friends used to joke that I was the only one with pens in my pocket. Get your nurse friend a pen box so they never have to worry about running out of pens during work. This way, they always have one handy when they need to make nursing care plans or fill out paperwork.

Nurse Sticky Notes

Use stickies to remind your nurse friend what they need to do. You can find ones with positive messages and quotes that will make them smile. And if you’re feeling extra creative, draw a picture or write a message on the sticky notes yourself – it’s sure to put a smile on their face!

Custom Nurse Planner

A custom student nurse planner helps nurses stay organized and track their shifts, important dates, reminders, etc. With one of these, they can easily plan their days and ensure they don’t miss anything important. Plus, with a personalized cover, they can show off their favorite nurse in style. It is an excellent gift for a nursing student. Or consider a digital student nurse planner.

38+ Unique Gifts for Nurses In 2023 - planner
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Wearable Gifts for Nurses

Compression Socks

SocksLane Cotton Compression Socks for Women & Men. 15-20 mmHg Support Knee-High
$22.55
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11/15/2024 12:23 am GMT

Nurses spend most of their shifts standing up, and compression socks can help prevent fatigue, cramping, and muscle soreness. They help promote better blood flow in the legs to reduce swelling and make it easier for nurses to stay on their feet for long periods.

Nursing Shoes

Many specialized nurse shoes are designed to make a nurse’s job easier while also helping relieve common foot problems. From slip-resistant soles to extra cushioning, and even shoes designed for flat feet or plantar fasciitis these shoes can help keep them comfortable throughout the day and give them the support they need during long shifts. Not sure precisely what shoes the nurse in your life would love, this nurse is a big fan of Kuru shoes.

you can also check out our full guide to the best shoes for nurses.

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Scrubs for Nurses

Every day, nurses wear scrubs to work, so why not get them personalized ones as a gift? This way, nurses can stay comfortable and stylish during their shift. With custom embroidery or monogramming, you can make sure the scrub is unique and special just for them. And you can always find ones in their favorite colors and styles.

Scrub Cap

A scrub cap is a perfect gift for any nurse who works in the ER. They can keep their hair out of the way and show off their style simultaneously. You can find ones with funny messages, inspiring quotes, or even personalized monogram caps.

38+ Unique Gifts for Nurses In 2023 -
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Nurse Jewelry

Show your appreciation for a special nurse with some beautiful jewelry. From pendants to pins, you can find pieces that feature the symbol of nursing or messages of encouragement and strength. Nurses will love wearing something to remind them why they chose this profession and how much they help others.

38+ Unique Gifts for Nurses In 2023 - necklace
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Digital Nurse Watches

Watches are a great nurse gift. With a digital nurse watch, they can easily check the time without taking out their cell phone or looking at a clock. Plus, you can find ones with features like alarms, timers, and even reminders for when it’s time for medication – making them a must-have item for any nurse on the job.

Customized Lab Coat

Nothing says “I appreciate all you do” more than giving someone their customized lab coat with their name emblazoned across the back. It is especially useful if your favorite nurse is still in school – they’ll look extra professional while they learn the ropes! Plus, they can use this lab coat when they become full-fledged nurses.

Personalized Gifts for Nurses

Personalized Nurse Tumblers

38+ Unique Gifts for Nurses In 2023 - 413Bm8EZ3OL. SL500

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A personalized tumbler is a handy gift that your nurse friend can take everywhere with them. This insulated cup will keep their drinks hot or cold for hours, making it the perfect way to stay hydrated throughout the day. You can have the tumbler customized with their name and favorite quote, so they’ll think of you every time they take a sip.

Personalized Pens

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11/15/2024 05:07 am GMT

A personalized pen is a great gift for many reasons. First and foremost, we’re always needing a pen. In addition, a pen customized with your name is far less likely to get carried off by a doctor or another nurse. They also receive many compliments and are a friendly daily reminder that someone thought highly enough of you to have something made specifically for you.

Badge Holder or Lanyard

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A quality badge holder or lanyard is always a welcome addition to any nurse’s uniform. Although these items can be difficult to buy because of their variety, if you pick an elegant and classic style, any nurse would flip over it. A great choice is Silver Spring Badge Reel Necklace38+ Unique Gifts for Nurses In 2023 - ir?t=thenerdynurse 20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0040RQE2M&camp=217145&creative=399373. Or if you are looking for something a little more fun and whimsical, then Prestige Medical Yellow Rubber Duck Nurse Retractable Badge Holder with Bulldog Clip might be a worthy item for consideration.

Of course, if you’re looking for a gift for a male nurse, something a little more masculine and perhaps even sports-themed may be in line. Pittsburgh Steelers Retractable Badge Holder or maybe Georgia Bulldogs Lanyard, Key, and Badge Holder, of course, you should probably investigate which sports team said nurse follows; otherwise, this gift idea could backfire.

Check out more great badges in 9 Designer ID Badge Reels for Nurses that Rock.

Personalized Clipboards

Nursing is a profession that demands organization, patient privacy, and mobility. A nursing clipboard is your secret weapon to accomplishing all of those skills. Consider a personalized clipboard with storage to help the nurse in your life get it all done. I am a big fan of this one:

38+ Unique Gifts for Nurses In 2023 - clipboard
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This clipboard has plenty of storage to organize your important notes and papers. It also has compartments to hold accessories too. Plus, the Navy Scribbles Clipboard has a great chevron-like pattern to help it stand out from everyone else’s clipboards.

Stethoscope Cases

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A stethoscope is a common gift for nurses. And it is important to keep it clean and safe. Get your nurse friend a customized stethoscope case with their name, favorite color, or design. This way, they always know where to find their stethoscope and have something nice to look at while on the job. 

Great Nurse Birthday Gifts

Maybe you are shopping for an excellent nurse birthday gift. These are sure to thrill any nurse in your life.

Watch and Timepieces

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08/20/2024 09:49 pm GMT

Even though almost everyone has a smartphone, and there are always clocks around, there is something very comforting and convenient about wearing a regular, old-fashioned wristwatch. Not to mention the added flair a cute watch can give to an otherwise dull scrub set.

Check out Whimsical Watches Unisex Nurse White Leather Watch. Even though it says “unisex”, I can’t say I know too many male nurses who’d be thrilled about this one. You may want to stick with something a little more traditional, like Timex Men’s T45171 Expedition Analog and Digital Combo Watch for that male nurse in your life.

Gift Cards

The Perfect Gift
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11/14/2024 11:33 pm GMT

If you just can’t decide what to get for that nurse in your life, then you can’t go wrong with a Gift Card. Amazon Gift Cards, iTunes Gift Cards, or Outback Steakhouse Gift Cards are all great ideas that almost any nurse would receive well. Everyone loves gift cards, so this suggestion will work for anyone you know.

It’s Time For The Gift

No matter what kind of gift you give the nurses in your life—practical, fun, or relaxing—they will surely appreciate it. Showing someone how much you care isn’t always easy, but gifting them something unique can speak volumes about how much they mean to you without saying anything.

So show your favorite nurse how much you appreciate them this holiday season with these unique gifts. From customized stethoscope covers to noise-canceling headphones to nursing journals—there’s something here for every type of nurse.

And don’t forget—nurses always appreciate thoughtful gestures like heartfelt cards or homemade baked goods! So go ahead and show your appreciation today with these awesome gifts.

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