What's in my Clinical Bag?

That night before your first clinical can bring a lot of emotions. My biggest emotion at play was nerves. What would my patient be like? Would the nurses be mean? What will my teacher ask me? and the biggest question What do I need? So depending on the clinical it really depends on what you need but for me this is my go to pre packed bag I like to keep in my car during Clinical rotations. Sometimes I will carry my the book for that specific class, depending on the teacher and how much down time is expected during the clinical. Aways bring your paperwork, you never know when you may have 10 minutes to think up a care plan or write up your assessment. Use your time wisely!

 Here is a look into my bag! I always carry my planner with me. You never know when a teacher will change a date or add an assignment! I recently purchased a Day Designer and so far am loving it!

 I carry a pocket size notepad in my pocket to write down any vitals or information I get from the patient that I may need for paperwork or charting. Also in my pocket is a pocket sized eye chart. ALWAYS carry extra pens. Those things disappear all the time. Chapstick is a must for me along with gum and hand lotion.  Make sure the lotion is unscented! You hands will thank you after constantly washing them! Tide to go pen is super handy to have. We wear white scrub tops so every little stain or spill is seen. I try to never leave the house for a long day of classes or clinical without a protein or granola bar. I love love Quest Bars! So good and filling and prefect to hold me over till a break or for the rest of the clinical. The little black box carries my drug cards or any pre notes I make on my patients condition. Tylenol or some sort of medication for headaches or aches and pains is a good idea. If you have never had a clinical before or worked in a hospital, you'll be surprised by how much walking and lifting you will be doing. Tylenol is my go to!

 I am big on getting in my water for the day and can only do this my always making sure I have a water bottle around. This thing goes everywhere with me. A drug book is handy in case your patients drugs change might shift or if you have some time to work on your paperwork. I love my Littman stethoscope. This baby should last me quite a long time past nursing school.

 My bag is a Thirtyone Utility tote, Spirit collection . It is perfect for clinical. Easy to clean and lots of pockets for all my small things i carry with me.

 

Hope this helps as you plan out your first clinical day!

XOXO

Kelsie