The best small gift ideas for nurses are personalized badge holders, compression socks, or a quality hand cream that can show appreciation.
Do you have a nurse in your life that you want to show appreciation for? Nurses are some of the hardest workers in our society. Whether working at a local doctor’s office or a hospital, they almost always go the extra mile to ensure the patients are in the best possible state. Even though they usually have their schedule packed every day they still go out of their way to ensure they are helpful to us whenever necessary.
To make these hard-working nurses feel like they are appreciated and loved we have curated a list full of small gift ideas for nurses. Since there are so many options to choose from when it comes to selecting a gift, it can often be hard. Our list has items that would help make their days at work easier and gifts that would be practical for nurses. This means whatever gift you choose, the nurse it’s for is going to find some use for it! Keep on reading to find out more!
- Gift Ideas for Busy Nurses
Nurses have a very packed and hectic schedule almost every day. Their environment for work is also quite stressful. Since almost everything that nurses do involves a high level of responsibility as well as emotional labor, giving busy nurses a gift is surely something they will appreciate. Here are some gift ideas from supplies and gears to stethoscopes for work, choose your best gift!
- Nursing Gear and Supplies
Having an extra set of gear and supplies can be lifesaving for a nurse. This is because most of their day is filled with a ton of work and can often end up making their gear dirty.
They may also run out of important supplies. Nursing gear and supplies as gifts will make sure that they are always stocked for any unforeseen emergencies!
Here are some ideas for nursing gear and supplies:
- Medical scrubs
- Blood pressure monitor
- Nitrile gloves
- Stethoscope
- Penlight
- New Scrub Set
Nurses must be wearing their scrubs whether it is someone who is just learning the ropes or someone who has been a nurse for years.
Since they wear the scrub set all day around it can end up dirty. Any nurse would appreciate an extra set of scrubs to wear!
- Stethoscopes
Whenever we see nurses they always have a stethoscope wrapped around them or in some pocket. It is an essential medical item they carry to check any patient if they need some form of emergency care.
Owning a pair of fancy or just about any stethoscope that they can have as a backup will surely be of great use to any nurse.
- Stethoscope ID Tags
Since every other nurse is carrying a stethoscope there are times that they can often get mixed up with others.
Having their ID tags for their stethoscopes can personalize their equipment and make it easier for them to distinguish their stethoscope to avoid any potential issues.
- Badge Clips
Nurses need to carry several essential items throughout their days, such as identification cards, keys, or any other items that need to be easily accessed.
This is why badge clips are a great gift for nurses because they can have all of these items accessible at any time they need them.
- Nursing Shoes
Nurses do a lot of work that requires them to be on their feet for long periods. This is why specific nursing shoes are an amazing gift for nurses because this ensures that their feet remain healthy and uninjured, and make physical activities easier for them to perform.
Here are some reasons to convince you to choose nursing shoes as a gift:
- This is a practical choice of gift
- Promotes convenience for the receiver
- Great for daily usage
- Compression Socks
As previously mentioned, nurses do a lot of work that requires them to be standing and doing physical activities during the majority of their shifts.
Compression Socks are a wonderful gift to give nurses because these socks help to keep their legs and feet from swelling, and they help with reducing any pain that nurses might feel throughout their work.
- Nursing Bags
This is a gift item that makes organizing nursing tools a lot easier. Nursing bags are usually designed with several different compartments which are meant to neatly organize all the essential tools nurses need to carry. A personalized nursing bag helps a nurse out through their daily work and can also be something to brag about.
- Smartwatch
Smartwatches have been all the craze lately. Everyone wants one and it is something that is of great use to a nurse. Being able to tell time and do basic activities through their watch can be very time-saving and useful.
This allows nurses to not be on their phones too much while also allowing them to use any other necessary functionalities of the watch.
| Gift Ideas | Budget-Friendly Price | Mid Range Price | Luxury Price |
| Nursing gear and supplies | $30 – $50 | $50 – $80 | $80 and above |
| New Scrub Set | $40 – $50 | $50 – $70 | $70 and above |
| Stethoscopes | $50 – $70 | $70 – $100 | $100 and above |
| Stethoscope ID tags | $10 – $20 | $20 – $25 | $25 and above |
| Badge Clips | $10 – $20 | $20 – $30 | $30 and above |
| Nursing Shoes | $30 – $50 | $50 – $100 | $100 and above |
| Compression Socks | $20 – $50 | $40 – $70 | $70 and above |
| Nursing Bags | $50 – $100 | $100 – $150 | $150 and above |
| Smartwatches | $100 – $150 | $150 – $400 | $400 and above |
2. Mealtime Gift Ideas for Nurses
Mealtime gifts are very beneficial and thoughtful for nurses. Nurses must maintain their energy levels and look after their overall health even throughout their unpredictable shifts.
If they are going to take care of other patients, they need to stay healthy themselves. In this category of gifts, we have things from insulated lunch bags to portable food warmers. Choose your pick for your favorite nurse.
- Insulated Lunch Bags
Can come-in clutch to ensure that whatever food is packed into it stays fresh. Nurses spend hours every day just working and running around the hospital.
This means that at least their meal times should be relaxing and enjoyable. Insulated lunch bags make sure their food is fresh and good to eat whenever they want to sit down and take a break.
- All-In-One Stackable Lunch Box Container
Because nurses work for so long and often work overtime, it means they need to pack multiple containers of food for work. It can become a hassle to carry so much to work.
With an all-in-one stackable lunch box container, everything you want to eat can be packed all together in the same place so you just have one thing to carry. This is a very thoughtful gift for busy nurses.
Here is why an all-in-one stackable lunch box is a wonderful idea:
- A very practical and useful gift
- It offers plenty of storage space for food
- No spillage since containers are properly sealed
- Portable Food Warmer
No one wants to have cold food during their break after a long day of work. Food is only enjoyable and tasty when it is warm.
Giving your favorite nurse a portable food warmer will allow them to finally enjoy the food they pack by warming it up before they sit down to eat. It will make their break times feel more relaxing and energize them for the rest of their shift.
| Gift Ideas | Budget-Friendly Price | Mid Range Price | Luxury Price |
| Insulated Lunch Bags | $15 – $20 | $20 – $40 | $40 and above |
| All-In-One Stackable Lunch Box Containers | $20 – $40 | $40 – $60 | $60 and above |
| Portable Food Warmer | $50 – $70 | $70 – $100 | $100 and above |
3. Gifts for Relaxation and Self-Care for Nurses
Relaxation and self-care gifts are important for everyone. Even more for nurses since their demanding jobs cause a lot of emotional and physical stress. Gifts that are relaxing and promote self-care can help mitigate some of this stress.
We have items from massaging guns to air purifiers so that you can have several options to choose what you think is the best gift!
- Spa Day Gift
Nurses do not usually get a lot of time off work. This is why when they do have a day off they just want to chill and relax.
Booking them a spa appointment for their day off is going to fill them with excitement because they get to release all that built-up stress with a calming spa day.
- At-Home Relaxation
Relaxation does not always mean going out and celebrating. You can relax by staying at home too. To make the most of it try to do something fun for your favorite nurse.
Cook up meals that they would like and prepare a bath with their favorite bathbomb. They are sure to appreciate your efforts and this will provide them with enough energy to go back to work again.
- Massage Gun
Working all day is stressful for anyone. It exhausts you physically and the only way to take off that stress can often be with a relaxing massage.
Give a nurse a massaging gun and they can come back home after their work to sit and massage their exhaustion away!
Do you need more reasons to buy a massage gun? Here are some:
- Efficient and useful gift
- Provides relaxation
- Promotes restful sleep
- Heating Pad
Heating pads are not only relaxing but they are great when it comes to alleviating pain from injuries. With how physically demanding the job of a nurse is, a heating pad can help to relax them during their break time or even help to soothe any small injury they may have suffered.
- Relaxation Candles
Sleeping is important for a nurse so that they have enough energy to go back to work the next day.
To ensure a night of restful sleep, relaxation candles with a nice aroma can prove to be very helpful. Nurses can make use of this so that they can have a good night’s sleep.
- Body Restore Shower Steamers
Showers are not just to clean your body, for many, a warm shower can help them unwind and relax. Body-restoring shower steamers are very helpful when it comes to soothing your aching muscles and taking away the exhaustion from all your hard work. This is what makes this gift a very useful one to consider.
- Electric Foot Massager Machine
Jobs like being a nurse can be very demanding on your legs since there is a lot of walking and standing involved. Nurses often complain about aching feet after their shifts.
Owning an electric foot massager machine is going to make their lives so much better because they will be able to just come home and put their feet into the massaging machine to take the aching away.
- Hatch Restore 2 Sleep Assistant (sound machine and sleep tracker)
As we already mentioned, getting a night of restful sleep is essential for everyone. Especially people working in hospitals, such as nurses. They need to be well rested so that they can perform well at work since they carry a big responsibility.
This sleep assistant helps put a person to sleep with a sound machine and the sleep tracker can make sure they are sleeping enough.
- Levoit Air Purifier
A good number of people suffer from dust allergies and with the increase in pollution all over the world, it is only getting worse.
Air purifiers are there to ensure you have clean and fresh air in your house so that it feels more calming and it is also helpful for people with breathing issues. Nurses can use this to make sure they fall asleep in a clean and restful environment.
Below are some more reasons for you to buy the Levoit air purifier:
- Provides a clean environment
- Helps with breathing problems
- Promotes better sleep
| Gift Ideas | Budget-Friendly Price | Mid Range Price | Luxury Range |
| Spa Day Gift | $150 – $200 | $200 – $300 | $300 and above |
| At-Home Relaxation | $30 – $50 | $50 – $90 | $90 and above |
| Massage Gun | $60 – $80 | $80 – $100 | $100 and above |
| Heating Pad | $20 – $30 | $30 – $50 | $50 and above |
| Relaxation Candles | $20 – $30 | $30 – $50 | $50 and above |
| Body Restore Shower Steamers | $20 – $30 | $30 – $40 | $40 and above |
| Electric Foot Massager Machine | $50 – $70 | $70 – $100 | $100 and above |
| Hatch Restore 2 Sleep Assistant (sound machine and sleep tracker) | $100 – $120 | $120 – $150 | $150 and above |
| Levoit Air Purifier | $100 – $150 | $150 – $200 | $200 and above |
4. Gifts that Spark Joy to a Nurse
The work environment of a nurse is full of mental pressure and stress. It is hard work carrying the responsibility of people’s lives. This is why a gift that sparks joy or is entertaining is something that a nurse would be thankful for.
In this category, you will find gifts such as Happy Pills earrings and custom t-shirts so you can choose your favorite one!
Playful Gift Ideas
We have sorted this category into two sectors and here we will list some of the gift ideas that are more on the playful side so that your favorite nurse can enjoy your playful affection!
- Nurse Scrub Top Ornament
The scrubs that nurses wear are the same no matter where you go, they are always quite clinical and uniform. While it is helpful in their work environment, it is still quite boring and mundane.
To help them spice it up a little gift them some scrub top ornaments that can add a level of cheer and personalization to their attire.
- Medical Professional Socks
Nurses work all day in shoes so it means that they need to be wearing socks all the time as well. Regular socks are nice and helpful but getting them some fun medical professional socks can alleviate their daily attire and make it easier for them to work through their day.
- Prescription Coffee Mug
Getting that boost of caffeine in the morning or just about at any point throughout a stressful day is a necessity for anyone.
Nurses tend to use very ordinary items so getting a fun coffee mug that looks like a prescription has been printed on it can be a gift that makes them smile. Make their coffee breaks more enjoyable with a prescription coffee mug.
- Happy Pills Earrings
Nurses are people who do not always get the chance to get all dolled up with accessories. Buy a pair of Happy Pills earrings for your favorite nurse so she can look pretty with her earrings at work and give people outside her work a hint about her profession.
| Gift Ideas | Budget-Friendly Price | Mid Range Price | Luxury Price |
| Nurse Scrub Top Ornament | $30 – $40 | $40 – $60 | $60 and above |
| Medical Professional Socks | $15 – $25 | $25 – $50 | $50 and above |
| Prescription Coffee Mug | $20 – $30 | $30 – $50 | $50 and above |
| Happy Pills Earrings | $30 – $40 | $40 – $70 | $70 and above |
5. Personalized Touches
Gifts that spark a sense of joy do not always need to be something playful or witty, if that is not your idea of joy then here are some other ideas for you in the second sector. Here we have listed gifts with a touch of personalization to make your gifts more endearing.
- Personalized Nurse Water Bottle
Hydration is of extreme importance no matter who it is. It is even more required when you are carrying out tasks that are physically demanding. A personalized water bottle can make sure that your favorite nurse is always healthy and hydrated.
Moreover, the personalized aspect of the gift can make the water bottle into something that fits their liking.
- Nurse Gift Box Set
Gift boxes are not only versatile but also a very exciting gift. The idea of opening a box that is full of gifts for you will make anyone happy.
Add items that are practical such as badge holders or pens, and add some self-care items as well to make a complete gift box package! Here are some items to add:
- Skincare products
- Practical nursing-related items
- Some daily essentials
- Nurse Teddy Bear
Girls love teddy bears and if the nurse that you are shopping for is a girl then this can be a very cute gift. A nurse teddy bear that they can come back home to cuddle and sleep after a tiring day is not only adorable but it also provides them with a sense of comfort.
- Nurse Print
A nurse print is a gift that can not just be personalized to the receiver’s liking but also be used as a beautiful decorative item for any space.
Add some motivational quotes so that whether they hang it in their office or their room, they can always start the day with a positive mindset!
- Mini Florence Nightingale Necklace
Nurses cannot wear bulky jewelry or even wear lots of accessories due to the environment of their work. This means if they want to look nice they need to do so with small dainty accessories.
That’s what makes this Mini Florence nightingale necklace such a considerable gift. It is dainty and fits just right in with their daily scrubs while adding a touch of personalization.
| Gift Ideas | Budget-Friendly Price | Mid Range Price | Luxury Price |
| Personalized Nurse Water Bottle | $20 – $30 | $30 – $50 | $50 and above |
| Nurse Gift Box Set | $40 – $60 | $60 – $100 | $100 and above |
| Nurse Teddy Bear | $20 – $40 | $40 – $60 | $60 and above |
| Nurse Print | $20 – $30 | $30 – $40 | $40 and above |
| Mini Florence Nightingale Necklace | $40 – $50 | $50 – $80 | $80 and above |
6. Practical and Fun Gift Ideas for Nurses
Nurses are the type of people who can make the most out of practical gifts. This is why we have curated a list dedicated just to gifts that are practical and fun. Here you will find gifts from knee-high compression socks to wristlets so you have a variety of items to look through!
- Gloves in a Bottle Shielding Lotion
Gloves in a Bottle is a brand that makes some of the best shielding lotions out there. These lotions protect your hands from irritation and dryness, thus reducing any discomfort. Moreover, this lotion is long-lasting and also non-greasy. This makes it a perfect practical gift for nurses!
- Knee-High Compression Socks
Extended periods of standing and walking can lead to fatigue and so much more. Knee-high compression socks can help alleviate the soreness of muscles by providing additional support to the knees. This is a very practical gift that helps out nurses when they are working.
- Knit Jacket
Hospitals are usually kept pretty cool with a bunch of air conditioning all around the facility. This type of environment makes a knit jacket a very thoughtful gift to consider.
It will keep your favorite nurse warm and feeling comfortable. It is not only a practical but also a versatile gift that can be worn both at work and outside.
- Wireless Charger
With the world adapting to the wireless future we have to as well. A wireless charger is very useful since it is easily accessible and there is no need to make the effort of plugging your phone in.
It is convenient to use when working since you can just prop your phone up on the charger and it will charge up till you pick it back up again. Why is a wireless charger a good idea? Here are some reasons:
- Hassle-free use
- No worries about cable breaking
- It is easier to access
- UV Sanitizer
Nurses usually have to handle several different equipment that can very well carry harmful bacteria or pathogens on them.
Ensuring that they are always clean and protected is essential for them. A UV sanitizer provides additional protection that can help disinfect their hands efficiently.
- Wristlet
Nurses cannot carry anything like purses or small bags with their hands when at work. However, there are still necessary items that they need to carry around such as ID cards or keys.
Wristlets are tiny and lightweight so they can store small belongings that need to be carried around for easy access.
- Light-Blocking Eye Mask
We keep on mentioning how important a night full of restful sleep is for anyone. Nurses can make the most use of a light-blocking eye mask to catch a full night of relaxing sleep or to take a quick power nap at work. It ensures that whoever uses it can get a relaxing shut-eye.
| Gift Ideas | Budget-Friendly Price | Mid Range Price | Luxury Price |
| Gloves in a Bottle Shielding Lotion | $20 – $30 | $30 – $50 | $50 and above |
| Knee-High Compression Socks | $25 – $35 | $35 – $50 | $50 and above |
| Knit Jacket | $40 – $60 | $60 – $100 | $100 and above |
| Wireless Charger | $40 – $60 | $60 – $100 | $100 and above |
| UV Sanitizer | $35 – $50 | $50 – $65 | $65 and above |
| Wristlet | $15 – $30 | $30 – $50 | $50 and above |
| Light-blocking Eye Mask | $30 – $40 | $40 – $50 | $50 and above |
7. Bonus Gift Ideas for Nurse
This last category of gifts that we have listed is for a bunch of bonus gift ideas that we think are very helpful and useful for nurses.
There are both practical gifts such as hand sanitizers and affectionate gifts such as weighted pillows. Take a look through to find something that fits your needs!
- Cookie Sugarwish
This is a very thoughtful gift because Cookie Sugarwish gives you the freedom and the option to choose your favorite type of cookie.
You can customize your cookie so you can ensure that it is to the liking of the person you are getting it for. There is also the added benefit of getting the cookies delivered directly to you.
- Hand Sanitizer
A hand sanitizer is something very important for nurses to carry around with them. Given the environment where they work, they have to handle equipment and gear that are often covered with different kinds of harmful pathogens. Having a hand sanitizer helps them always stay disinfected.
- Heating Pad
Heating pads provide soothing relief from any sudden injuries and can just overall be a relaxing experience for some. Nurses can make the most out of them by carrying them to work in case of any unforeseen accidents occurring.
- Midnight Nurse Coloring Book
A great way to unwind and relax to take away all the mental stress is by getting a coloring book.
Since we are shopping for nurses, it would only make sense for the coloring book to be a nurse-themed coloring book. A midnight nurse coloring book can also put you to sleep while you color.
- Heart-Shaped Weighted Pillow
Nurses are often in positions where they are responsible for saving the lives of other people. For those nurses, giving them a heart-shaped weighted pillow is just adorable. They can come home to cuddle the weighted pillow and re-energize for the next day!
| Gift Ideas | Budget-Friendly Price | Mid Range Price | Luxury Price |
| Cookie Sugarwish | $20 – $30 | $30 – $50 | $50 and above |
| Hand Sanitizer | $10 – $15 | $15 – $40 | $40 and above |
| Heating Pad | $20 – $30 | $30 – $60 | $60 and above |
| Midnight Nurse Coloring Book | $10 – $15 | $15 – $30 | $30 and above |
| Heart-Shaped Weighted Pillow | $30 – $50 | $50 – $80 | $80 and above |
Conclusion
Nurses are some of the most hard-working people in the society. This is why they deserve to be acknowledged and appreciated for all their efforts. They go through their entire days just to ensure their patients are safe and taken care of. We hope that you found something to get for your favorite nurse from our list!
FAQs
What is the perfect gift for a nurse?
The perfect gift for a nurse would be something practical such as all-in-one stackable lunch containers.
What do nurses like as a thank-you gift?
A good thank-you gift for a nurse could be something like a portable food warmer or new nursing shoes.
What is the best thing for nurses?
The best thing for nurses is a set of new scrubs for work.
Can you buy a nurse a gift?
If the nurse is someone you know personally or have visited multiple times over the years then it is okay to buy them a gift to show your appreciation.
