Are your friends or family members consistently giving you holiday gifts like this one or these? Underneath the stethoscope and the scrubs, nurses are normal people, too (except for those super-powers), and usually want the same things anyone else wants during the holidays.
Here are a few gift ideas you might consider planting this year (which might help you avoid getting this):
- A spa day
I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again – a massage, facial, mani/pedi (preferably all of the above) is good for the soul - A cozy fleece
Sometimes it gets cold sitting at the nurses station. And sometimes you need a warm hug while dealing with a particularly difficult day. A cozy fleece can solve both of these problems! - A day “off”
Sure, you may get the day off of work, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have responsibilities. Whether it’s taking care of children, grocery shopping or a long list of errands, you likely have very little down time.
Ask your spouse, friends or family for a day “off”. Meaning, someone takes the kids for the whole day, does your shopping and doesn’t ask you for a thing. Nurses serve others all day every day – having someone serve you is a well-deserved gift! - Those scrubs you’ve been eyeing
Every nurse has that one pair of scrubs they love, and it may be time to get some new pairs (we all know nurses’ uniforms get some wear and tear…and bodily fluids on occasion). Be sure not to simply put “scrubs” on your wish list, because there’s no telling what you’ll get. Ask for a specific brand, color, etc. - Starbucks gift card. Coffee. Enough said.
- Custom gift basket
Really into fruits? Ask for an Edible Arrangement. Lover of all things fashion? A themed gift basket complete with accessories and magazines can be arranged (literally). This is a great way to get items you love, especially if you don’t have one thing specifically in mind. - Comfy shoes
Nurses think about the shoes they wear to work more than most professionals. That’s because a bad pair of shoes doesn’t have anything to do with fashion statements, but comfort. Find the right shoes for you, and put them on your wish list! They’re the gift that keeps on giving. - Gym bag
Nothing gets you more excited to go to the gym than a nifty gym bag. The days of taking your clothes in a plastic bag are over once you’ve got the real deal. Since you wouldn’t normally go shopping especially for this item, it’s a great thing to ask for during the holidays. - Fitness membership
Not interested in lifting weights or running on a treadmill? There are specialized fitness gyms for yoga, Pilates, CrossFit and more – asking for a few months of paid membership can help you find something you enjoy (and can stick with). - A gift that gives back
You’re a nurse, so helping people is part of your DNA. Struggling to think of something you actually want for the holidays this year? Ask for donations in your name to your favorite charity.