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You're finally ready to start nursing school after a months-long procedure. You conducted research, applied to programs, aced your entrance exam, received acceptance letters, and finally enrolled in the program. But now that courses are set to begin, the real labor begins.

To help you overcome pre-nursing school nerves and get the year started on the right foot, attempt to gather as many of your nursing student supplies as possible ahead of time. If you're unsure where, to begin with, your purchase, here's a list of 6 must-have items for any list of necessary nursing supplies for students.

1. Scrubs

Scrubs are the first thing on any aspiring nurse's shopping list, and for good reason: they're the de facto uniform for nurses and nursing students alike. Some schools and hospitals have specific standards regarding what color scrubs you should wear, so check with the school before purchasing any clothing. Once you've decided on a color, you can check for features like antibacterial fabric, flattering cuts, and vents to keep you cool. And, whatever you do, invest in some scrubs with pockets: They are essential for transporting various nursing student supplies. If you're not sure what size or style of scrub to buy, take your measurements, so you can choose the most flattering fit.

2. Socks with Compression

You may not always be able to see your compression socks, but you'll be glad you're wearing them: Compression socks promote healthy blood flow and prevent blood from collecting in your feet. This lowers your risk of developing blood clots and eases the pain and exhaustion that can be caused by walking and standing all day. If you need to dress up a little, compression hoses are a possibility, or compression sleeves — which cover most of the calf, but leave the foot free — if you like to wear conventional socks.

3. Nursing shoes

For nursing shoes you can select a tennis shoe or a clog-style design; further possibilities include laces, slip-ons, and hook and loop straps. Tennis shoes can usually be washed, whereas clogs can be readily wiped down and disinfected. Nursing shoes are available in a variety of colors and materials to suit any circumstance, including cotton, leather, and vinyl. Whatever shoe design you choose, check for slip-resistant bottoms to prevent yourself from falling and keep you on solid ground.

4. Textbooks

Nursing school classes, like any other, will necessitate the purchase of textbooks. Textbooks can be rented or purchased, so consider your budget and examine your syllabus to see how many readings or assignments you'll need to complete in each book to choose which choice is best for you. Some students enjoy the convenience of digital textbooks, which allows you to take all of your books about on a single e-reader, while others find digital screens difficult on their eyes and prefer traditional books with paper pages. There is no right or wrong answer; choose whichever textbook options make the most sense for you, but allow plenty of time to order them, so you have them before class begins.

5. A stethoscope

A stethoscope, which allows you to listen to the heart, lungs, bowels, and many other body parts for symptoms of abnormality, is essential for every medical professional who examines patients. You'll be using your stethoscope throughout nursing school and beyond, so if you can afford it, obtain a high-quality one from the start to avoid having to buy a new one in a year or two. Engrave your stethoscope, so it's easily identifiable from your first lesson to the start of your first employment.

6. Nursing Bag

You'll need a bag for your nursing supplies, just like you'll need a backpack for your nursing student supplies. This handy nursing bag makes it simple to transport everything you need for clinicals, such as a stethoscope, blood pressure gadgets, scissors, gauze, bandages, and more. Look for a hard-surface bag that can be readily sanitized and has plenty of pockets, so you can keep organized and quickly find whatever item you need.

Conclusion

Nursing school is an exciting milestone in your professional journey as a nurse, regardless of your age. With the beginning of a new semester, consider this list of necessary nursing student supplies to ensure you have all you need before the first day of class.