DiversityNursing Blog

Nursing journal clubs are making a strong comeback as more healthcare organizations recognize the need for practical, team-based learning that improves patient care. With the rapid growth of evidence-based practice (EBP) and new research emerging every day, Nurses are looking for ways to stay current without returning to school or drowning in academic articles alone.

Journal clubs offer exactly that, structured yet low-pressure discussions where Nurses can apply research to real clinical challenges. Many hospitals now support journal clubs as part of professional development and shared governance initiatives, which not only strengthens clinical decision-making but also builds collaboration and morale among teams. In a time when burnout and turnover are high, journal clubs provide a refreshing space for connection, critical thinking, and growth.

What Exactly Is a Nursing Journal Club?

A Nursing journal club is a group of Nurses who meet regularly to discuss research articles and how the findings could improve patient care. It’s usually held monthly and can be in-person or virtual. Each session focuses on one article, typically chosen because it relates to Nursing care, patient safety, or clinical outcomes.

Instead of just reading the article, Nurses talk through it:

• What was the study trying to find?
• Did they do good research?
• Do we trust the results?
• Should we change practice based on this?
• Could this help patients on our unit?

Basically, it helps make research less scary and more useful.

Why Journal Clubs Matter for Nurses

Here’s why more hospitals and Nursing units are bringing them back:

They help connect research to the bedside
Research shouldn’t stay in journals. Journal clubs translate research into real-life practice, helping Nurses stay current and confident.

They build professional confidence
Studies show that journal clubs improve Nurses’ critical thinking and evidence-based practice (EBP) skills. Nearly 90% of Nurses said journal clubs were valuable for learning and development (BMC Nursing Study, 2025).

They improve teamwork and professional growth
Talking through research together encourages shared decision-making, respectful debate, and keeps everyone on the same page.

They support better patient outcomes
When nurses base practice on current evidence, care becomes safer, more effective, and more consistent. One review noted that journal clubs help improve quality of care by increasing the use of evidence in decisions (Integrative Review, 2022).

How to Start a Journal Club on Your Unit

Starting one doesn’t take much,  just some interest and a little organization.

Step 1: Get a small team together

Recruit 3–10 Nurses to start. You don’t need 50 people, just a handful of people who care about good Nursing.

Step 2: Pick a topic Nurses care about

Ask your unit: What clinical question do we have?

Step 3: Choose your first article

Pick something simple and relevant, clinical practice guidelines or systematic reviews are a great start. Can't decide? Have participants throw article titles into a hat and choose one at random.

Step 4: Meet for 30–45 minutes

Breakdown of a session:

• 5 min – Article summary
• 15 min – What did we learn?
• 15 min – How does this apply to us?
• 5 min – Any next steps?
  
  

Step 5: Keep it consistent

Monthly is perfect. Keep it casual — coffee, snacks, learning, done.

How to Make Nursing Journal Clubs Fun (Yes, Really!)

Journal clubs don’t have to feel like another mandatory meeting, when done right, they can actually be enjoyable and energizing. Keep sessions relaxed and interactive by choosing topics Nurses genuinely care about. Rotate facilitators so everyone gets a chance to lead. Keep it real, encourage Nurses to share stories from practice and compare findings to what happens on the unit.

Most importantly, celebrate wins along the way, whether it’s applying one article insight, improving a workflow, or just showing up to grow together. When journal clubs feel like a team huddle rather than a lecture, people look forward to them.

Fun Ideas to Keep Journal Clubs Enjoyable

• Snack + Study Theme: “Muffins & Medicine,” “Bagels & Bedside Evidence,” or “Tacos & Topics Tuesday.”

• Speed Sessions: Try a 20-minute power journal club—fast, focused, and friendly.

• Article Mystery Reveal: Share only the article title ahead of time—reveal key findings at the meeting for curiosity and discussion.

• EBP Bingo: Create simple bingo cards with phrases like “sample size,” “limitations,” “clinical relevance,” or “needs more data.”

• Hot Take Round: Everyone shares their first reaction to the article in 10 words or less.

• Real Talk Section: Discuss how feasible the findings are in your unit (honesty welcome!)

• Practical Takeaway Challenge: End each session by choosing ONE thing that could realistically change practice.

• You Be the Reviewer: Rate the article 1–5 stars and vote on whether you’d apply the findings.

• Rotate Hosts: Each month, a different nurse picks a topic they’re passionate about.

• Clinical Connection Corner: Pair each article with 1 real unit case example to make it meaningful.

Nursing journal clubs aren’t just about articles, they’re about empowering Nurses. They help us speak up, think critically, question practice, and make our units better for both staff and patients. You don’t have to be a “research person” to join one. You just have to care about good Nursing.

As Nurses, we’re used to caring for everyone else, patients, families, friends; often leaving ourselves at the bottom of the list. But as the air turns crisp and the leaves show off their fiery colors, fall is the perfect reminder to slow down and savor life’s little joys.

Whether you’re coming off a 12-hour shift, finally getting some time off, or just trying to find balance between work and rest, here’s a list of fun autumn activities perfect for Nurses. Think of it as your fall self-care bucket list!

🍎 1. Go Apple Picking (and Bake Something Delicious!)

There’s something nostalgic and grounding about spending a sunny fall afternoon wandering through an orchard. Grab a fellow Nurse friend and fill a basket then challenge each other to bake the best treats or desserts. Bonus: bring a few treats to your next shift and instantly become the unit favorite.

🎃 2. Host a Pumpkin Decorating Night

Forget carving messes, get creative with paint, glitter, or even Nurse-themed designs (IV lines and EKG squiggles, anyone?). This is a great way to unwind with coworkers after a long week. Pro tip: turn it into a contest and let your unit vote for the winner.

☕ 3. Build the Ultimate Fall Night-In

After a string of back-to-back shifts, you deserve a cozy recharge night. Fuzzy socks? ✔️
Pumpkin spice latte? ✔️
Cheesy fall movie marathon (Hocus Pocus, Practical Magic, You’ve Got Mail)? ✔️
It’s the simple comforts that reset your mind and body for the next day of patient care.

🥾 4. Take a Scenic Hike or Nature Walk

Fall is the best time to reconnect with nature, the cooler weather and changing leaves make every trail feel magical. It’s also a great way to de-stress and get some gentle movement in after all those hours on your feet.

📝 5. Start a “Gratitude Journal” Challenge

Nursing can be emotionally demanding, and autumn with its season of thanksgiving, is a great time to reflect. Try writing down one thing you’re grateful for after each shift. Over time, it becomes a beautiful reminder of why you love what you do.

🥧 6. Plan a Shift Potluck with Fall Foods

Bring a little autumn cheer to the unit by organizing a themed potluck. Think: butternut squash soup, apple cider donuts, pumpkin muffins, or chili. It’s a great morale boost and a delicious way to connect with your team.

🌽 7. Visit a Fall Festival or Farmers Market

From hayrides and corn mazes to homemade jams, local fall events are packed with cozy charm. Plus, many markets offer seasonal produce, perfect for healthy meal prepping between shifts.

🕯️ 8. Create a Fall-Inspired Self-Care Ritual

Light a cinnamon-scented candle, run a hot bath with clove or vanilla bath salts, and take 30 minutes just for you. Even the most dedicated Nurse needs intentional downtime to recharge.

❤️ 9. Take a “Mental Health Day” and Do Nothing (Guilt-Free!)

Yes, this is an activity and an important one. Use a well-earned day off to do absolutely nothing on purpose. Sleep in, stay in pajamas, sip tea by the window, or read a book. Your patients benefit most when you’re rested and recharged.

🍁 10. Have a Cozy Friendsgiving with Your Work Family

Your unit is your second family, so why not celebrate together? A low-key Friendsgiving filled with comfort food, laughter, and gratitude is the perfect way to strengthen bonds and reflect on the impact you’ve made together this year.

This fall, remember: you’re more than your scrubs and stethoscope. You’re a whole person who deserves joy, rest, and connection. So grab your flannel, step into those crunchy leaves, and make time for the little things that make this season so magical.

After all, Nurses give so much of themselves every day. This autumn, it’s time to fill your own cup, too. 

The mission of Frontier Nursing University is to provide a high-quality education that prepares nurses to become competent, entrepreneurial, ethical and compassionate nurse-midwives and nurse practitioners to work with all people, with an emphasis on rural and underserved communities. FNU offers graduate Nurse-Midwifery and Nurse Practitioner distance education programs that can be pursued full- or part-time with the student’s home community serving as the classroom. Degrees and options offered include Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or Post-Graduate Certificates. Frontier has been named a “Great College to Work For” by the Great Colleges to Work For® program for each of the past five years (2021-2025). To learn more about FNU and the programs and degrees offered, please visit Frontier.edu. 

In today’s increasingly diverse healthcare landscape, language and culture are far more than communication tools, they’re fundamental components of high-quality, patient-centered care. When language barriers exist, so do significant risks: misdiagnoses, poor adherence to treatment, patient dissatisfaction, and even preventable harm. Bilingual and bicultural Nurses play a critical role in closing these gaps, ensuring every patient receives care that is not only clinically effective but also culturally sensitive and respectful.

The Impact of Language Barriers in Healthcare

Healthcare is complex, even for those fluent in medical terminology. For patients with limited English proficiency (LEP), understanding a diagnosis, medication instructions, or discharge plan can feel nearly impossible. According to research, LEP patients are more likely to experience longer hospital stays, higher readmission rates, and poorer outcomes compared to English-speaking patients.

Miscommunication can lead to:

• Errors in medication dosing or timing

• Missed follow-up appointments

• Poor understanding of self-care instructions

• Anxiety and mistrust in the healthcare system

These challenges make the presence of bilingual healthcare professionals, especially Nurses, who spend the most time with patients, indispensable.

Bilingual Nurses: Communication Beyond Words

Bilingual Nurses do more than translate words, they interpret meaning, tone, and context. This ability enhances every aspect of patient care, from assessment and education to emotional support.

Benefits of bilingual Nursing care include:

• Accurate Assessments: Patients are more likely to describe their symptoms and concerns fully when speaking their native language.

• Improved Health Literacy: Nurses can explain complex medical information in a way that’s clear and relatable.

• Increased Compliance: When patients truly understand their care plans, they’re more likely to follow them.

• Trust and Comfort: Being able to speak in one’s first language fosters connection and reduces anxiety.

Cultural Competence: The Power of Bicultural Nurses

Language is only part of the equation. Culture deeply influences health beliefs, decision-making, and perceptions of care. Bicultural Nurses, who share or deeply understand their patients’ cultural backgrounds, are uniquely positioned to bridge these differences.

They can anticipate potential barriers, such as:

• Preferences for traditional remedies or holistic approaches

• Cultural norms around gender, modesty, or family involvement

• Differing views on pain expression, end-of-life care, or mental health

By integrating cultural understanding into care, bicultural Nurses promote respect, dignity, and individualized care, core components of Nursing practice.

Real-World Impact: Building Trust and Better Outcomes

The presence of bilingual and bicultural Nurses has tangible benefits for healthcare systems and patient outcomes. Studies show that patients cared for by culturally and linguistically concordant providers report higher satisfaction, better communication, and improved adherence to treatment. Hospitals and clinics with diverse Nursing staff also see fewer disparities in care and better community engagement.

Moreover, these Nurses often serve as cultural ambassadors within healthcare teams, educating colleagues on best practices and helping shape policies that promote inclusivity and equity.

Supporting and Expanding the Bilingual Nursing Workforce

As patient populations continue to diversify, the demand for bilingual and bicultural Nurses will only grow. Healthcare organizations can support this vital workforce by:

• Offering language proficiency training and certification programs

• Providing incentives for bilingual skills

• Recruiting from diverse communities

• Creating mentorship and leadership opportunities for bilingual Nurses

Language and culture are powerful determinants of health and Nurses who can navigate both provide more than care; they deliver connection, understanding, and healing. Bilingual and bicultural Nurses are essential to bridging healthcare gaps, ensuring every patient is seen, heard, and cared for with compassion and respect.

As the face of healthcare evolves, so must the people delivering it. By embracing linguistic and cultural diversity in Nursing, we move closer to a truly inclusive healthcare system, one that meets patients where they are and empowers them to achieve their best possible health.

Every year during Hispanic Heritage Month, we highlight the powerful contributions of Hispanic and Latinx Nurses, those who broke barriers, built institutions, and continue to lead change in health care. For Nurses today, their stories are not just inspiring; they are lessons in advocacy, perseverance, and cultural humility. Below are profiles of both past and present Hispanic/Latinx Nurse leaders whose work has shaped health care in meaningful ways.

Historical Trailblazers

Ildaura Murillo-Rohde, PhD, RN, FAAN
Born in Panama in 1920, Murillo-Rohde moved to the U.S. and became deeply aware of the lack of Hispanic representation among Nurses in communities where it was most needed. She earned advanced degrees, including her Ph.D. from NYU, and was the first Hispanic Dean of Nursing at New York University. Her most enduring legacy is founding the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) in 1975 — to support Hispanic Nurses and improve culturally competent care. AAMC

Hector Hugo Gonzalez, PhD, VR-RN
Gonzalez was the first Mexican-American Registered Nurse in the U.S. to earn a Ph.D. (1974). He devoted much of his career to creating access, especially for Hispanic and male Nursing students. As chair of the Department of Nursing Education at San Antonio College, he helped develop flexible curricula (evening classes) to allow non-traditional students to succeed. TNAA

Henrieta Villaescusa, MPH, RN
A pioneer in public health, Villaescusa held many “firsts”: she was the first Hispanic Nurse appointed to an administrative role in the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare; first Mexican-American Chief Nurse consultant in the Office of Maternal & Child Health. Throughout her career, she was a voice for Latino health on both local and national levels. AJC

Nelly Garzón Alarcón
From Colombia, Garzón Alarcón was the first Latin American Nurse to become president of the International Council of Nurses (ICN) in 1985. She made major contributions to Nursing education, ethics, and regulation. Her leadership was not just national but global. Wikipedia

Carmen Lozano Dumler, RN
One of the first Puerto Rican women to become a U.S. Army officer, Dumler served during WWII. Her service as a Nurse and interpreter helped bridge language and culture for many Spanish-speaking patients in the Army Nurse Corps. Wikipedia

Modern Leaders Continuing the Legacy

Dr. Adrianna Nava, PhD, MPA, MSN, RN, FAAN
Previous President of NAHN, Dr. Nava has been recognized among Modern Healthcare’s Top 25 Emerging Leaders (2023) for her work with veteran and Latino health, policy, and leadership. She is actively working to close health disparities using performance measurement, policy, and community engagement. nahnnet.org

Hilda Ortiz-Morales, Ph.D., NP, AAHIVS
A Nurse Practitioner, Professor, and HIV/HCV program coordinator, Ortiz-Morales works explicitly with populations disproportionately affected by health inequities, including Hispanic and Black patients. Her service, teaching, and mentorship demonstrate how modern Nursing leadership mixes clinical practice, research, and advocacy. AJC

Why These Stories Matter for Nurses Today

• Representation has ripple effects: Seeing Nurses who share one’s culture, language, or background can enhance trust, improve communication, and help institutions better serve communities.

• Advocacy is as much part of the job as clinical care: Many of the figures above didn’t stop at caring for patients, they pushed systems to change, created organizations (like NAHN), influenced policy, and opened doors for those who came after.

• Cultural competence isn’t optional: Historical leaders understood that language, cultural understanding, and context matter in Nursing. Today’s Nurses continue to build on that work, integrating it into education, research, and everyday patient care.

• Continuous learning and mentorship: Many of the historical figures came from modest beginnings, yet they pursued advanced education and mentored others. Modern leaders still model those traits. For Nurses in training or early career phases, these are powerful role models.

How to Honor & Learn from These Leaders

• Feature them in your workplace during Hispanic Heritage Month: Posters, newsletters, short staff presentations.

• Incorporate their work into training and education: Example case studies, guest speakers.

• Mentorship programs: Connect newer Nurses (especially Hispanic/Latinx) with senior leaders or peers who understand their journey.

• Advocate for inclusive policies: Language access, equitable hiring, flexible training options.

Hispanic and Latinx Nurses have shaped, and continue to shape, the nursing profession by breaking barriers, advocating for underrepresented communities, and pushing for health equity. Honoring them isn’t just about looking back, it’s about continuing the work they started. As Nurses today, we can carry forward their legacy through inclusive practice, leadership, and advocacy.

Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, are uniquely positioned to identify victims of human trafficking. Our holistic approach to patient care, coupled with the trust patients often place in us, makes us a crucial link in ending this horrific crime. However, recognizing the subtle signs of trafficking can be challenging. This article aims to equip you with the knowledge and resources to identify potential victims and provide them with a lifeline to safety.

Understanding Human Trafficking

Human trafficking involves the exploitation of individuals for profit through force, fraud, or coercion. It can take many forms, including sex trafficking, forced labor, and domestic servitude. It's a global issue that tragically exists in our own communities, affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.

Why Nurses are Key

We often interact with patients during vulnerable times. Traffickers may bring victims to emergency departments, clinics, or even home healthcare settings for treatment of injuries, illnesses, or routine care. These interactions can provide crucial opportunities to identify and assist victims who may be unable to seek help themselves.

Red Flags: What to Look For

While no single sign definitively indicates trafficking, a combination of certain indicators should raise suspicion. Be observant of both the patient's demeanor and physical condition, as well as the behavior of any accompanying individuals:

Patient Presentation:

• Physical Signs:
  • Unexplained injuries, such as bruises, burns, cuts, or fractures, that may be in various stages of healing.
  • Signs of malnourishment, dehydration, or poor hygiene.
  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
  • Fatigue, sleep deprivation, or anxiety.
  • Evidence of forced medical procedures or denial of care.
• Behavioral Signs:
  • Appears fearful, anxious, or submissive.
  • Avoids eye contact or direct communication.
  • Seems coached or hesitant to answer questions independently.
  • Unable to provide their own identification or personal information.
  • Inconsistent or vague explanations of injuries or illnesses.
  • Restricted communication with family or friends.
  • Fear of law enforcement or authority figures.
• Lack of Control:
  • Limited access to their own money or belongings.
  • No freedom of movement or decision-making.

Accompanying Individual's Behavior:

• Speaks for the patient and is unwilling to leave them alone.
• Shows controlling or overly concerned behavior.
• Is reluctant to provide their own information or identification.
• Answers questions directed at the patient.
• Seems to profit from the patient's medical visit.

What to Do If You Suspect Trafficking

If you suspect trafficking, your immediate priority is the patient's safety. Follow your facility's specific protocols for reporting suspected abuse or neglect. Here's a more detailed breakdown of what to do:

Initial Steps & Immediate Actions

• Create a Safe Space: Your primary goal is to get the patient alone, away from the potential trafficker. This can be challenging in an emergency department, but it's crucial. You might say, "I need to do a private exam" or "I need to discuss some sensitive information with the patient." Be creative and firm, but not confrontational.
• Use a Trauma-Informed Approach: The patient is likely terrified, and they may not see you as a safe person. Approach them with empathy and without judgment. Ask open-ended questions in a gentle tone, such as "Are you feeling safe at home?" or "Is there anything you want to tell me that you can't right now?"
• Look for Cues: Since the patient may be unable to speak freely, look for nonverbal cues. You can write down a simple question like, "Are you in danger?" on a piece of paper and hand it to them, or even use a simple yes/no response system with a nod or a blink.

Documentation & Reporting

• Document Thoroughly: Your documentation is a legal record and can be critical for any future investigation. Document everything you observe, not just what the patient says. Include details about their physical condition, their demeanor, the behavior of the accompanying individual, and any statements made by either party. Be objective and factual. Use direct quotes whenever possible, for example, "Patient stated, 'I'm not allowed to be alone.'"
• Follow Facility Protocol: Every healthcare institution has a protocol for handling suspected abuse. This typically involves notifying a supervisor, a social worker, or a patient advocate. Your facility's protocol is your roadmap—stick to it.

You can also contact the following resources for guidance and support:

• National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP to 233733. This hotline is available 24/7 and provides confidential support and resources for victims and those who suspect trafficking. Link to National Human Trafficking Hotline
• Polaris Project: This organization works to end human trafficking and provides resources for victims and professionals. Link to Polaris Project
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF): Offers resources and information on human trafficking. Link to HHS Anti-Trafficking Website

Education and Awareness

Staying informed is our collective responsibility. Advocate for ongoing training within your healthcare system on human trafficking recognition and response. By increasing our awareness and understanding, we can collectively become a powerful force in identifying and supporting victims of this heinous crime.

As Nurses, we are advocates for our patients' well-being. By learning to see the unseen signs of human trafficking, we can offer a beacon of hope and help pave the way for their freedom and recovery.

Congratulations! The decision to begin Nursing school is not only brave, it's life-changing. As a Nurse, I know the butterflies (and possibly the nerves) that come with this big leap. Whether you’re fresh out of high school, changing careers, or pursuing a lifelong dream, here’s my candid advice for those stepping into this new world.

What to Expect in Nursing School

An Intense but Rewarding Workload
Nursing school isn’t just “hard”, it’s a unique balance of science-heavy classes, hands-on clinicals, and the deep emotional learning that comes with caring for others. Expect lots of reading, group projects, pop quizzes, and skills check-offs. It’s challenging, but the moments when you really connect theory to practice make it all worthwhile.

Clinicals: Where the Magic Happens
You’ll spend time in hospitals, clinics, or care centers learning directly from professionals. These experiences are both thrilling and intimidating at first. Remember, everyone feels nervous! Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities, ask questions, and soak up every moment.

A Sense of Community (and Camaraderie)
Your classmates will become your support system, study buddies, and most importantly, lifelong friends. Lean on each other, celebrate wins, and help someone up when they’re down. Nursing is about teamwork from day one.

Personal and Professional Growth
Nursing school isn’t just about medical knowledge. You’ll become more resilient, patient, organized, and adaptable. Expect to face ethical dilemmas, emotional challenges, and days when you question yourself. That’s all part of your growth as a future Nurse.

How to Prepare for Nursing School

Get Organized Early
Invest in a sturdy planner or digital calendar. Keep track of assignments, tests, skills labs, and clinical rotations. Getting (and staying) organized helps reduce stress and ensures you never miss an important deadline.

Master the Basics

• Review anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.

• Brush up on basic math for safe medication calculation, you’ll need it!
  
  

Practice Self-Care
Nursing school will stretch you, so plan time for meals, rest, exercise, and fun. Burnout is real, but manageable with the right routines. Don’t neglect your health for your grades!

Harness Your Support System
Tell family and friends about your journey. Let them know when you’ll need encouragement or space to study. Leaning on your support network is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Be Ready to Ask for Help
There’s no shame in seeking assistance, whether it’s clarification from a professor, advice from a mentor, or counseling services for stress. Nursing school is a team effort.

Find Your “Why”
On tough days, remembering why you chose Nursing will keep you moving forward. Whether it’s to help others, chase your passion, or build a stable career, hold close to your motivation.

Essential Items Every Nursing Student Should Have

Heading into Nursing school prepared makes a huge difference, you’ll be more organized, comfortable, and ready for whatever the day brings. Here’s a list of must-have items to pack, buy, or keep on hand:

Stethoscope
A reliable stethoscope is vital for clinical skills and patient care. Choose a quality model that feels comfortable, you’ll use it every day.

Comfortable, Professional Scrubs
Invest in a few sets of scrubs that fit well, breathe, and are easy to wash. Some schools have color requirements, so check your guidelines before buying.

Supportive Shoes
You’ll be on your feet for hours. Go for non-slip, comfortable footwear made for healthcare settings. Your feet (and back) will thank you!

Watch With a Second Hand
Many clinical tasks require accurate time tracking (pulse counts, medication administration, and more.) A simple, waterproof watch is best.

Notebooks, Pens, and Highlighters
Jot down notes during lectures and clinicals. Color-coding helps keep info organized and makes study sessions more effective.

Clipboard (preferably with storage)
Useful for holding papers, forms, medication sheets, plus, a clipboard with storage keeps everything together as you move through your day.

Medical Reference Pocket Book or App
Having quick access to drug guides, medical terminology, or procedure notes can be a lifesaver, especially during clinical rotations.

Water Bottle and Healthy Snacks
Long days demand hydration and fuel. Bring a sturdy water bottle and portable snacks (nuts, granola bars, fruit) for energy when break times are short.

Hand Sanitizer and Sanitizing Wipes
Staying germ-free is a must, both at school and on the job. Keep hand sanitizer and wipes handy for a quick clean.

ID Badge Holder or Lanyard
Secure your student or hospital ID, many clinical sites require you to wear it at all times.

Planner or Digital Organizer
Keep track of assignments, shifts, exams, and appointments. Staying organized will lower your stress and help you meet deadlines.

Compression Socks
Extra support can reduce fatigue and swelling during long clinical shifts.

With these essentials, you’ll start Nursing school ready for learning, caring for patients, and tackling anything the day brings!

Nursing school is a wild, wonderful ride. You’ll fill your brain and your heart more than you ever thought possible. Be curious, stay kind (especially to yourself), and remember: every great Nurse was once a student just like you.

You’re about to embark on a journey that truly makes a difference. Embrace it all, you’ve got this!

In Nursing, there are moments when the clock seems to slow down, not because the shift is quiet, but because the weight of the situation demands your full presence. Whether it’s holding a patient’s hand before a major surgery or being the first face they see after hearing life-altering news, these are the moments when trust is not just helpful, it’s essential.

The bond between a Nurse and patient isn’t built in grand gestures. It’s formed through small, intentional acts that convey, I’m here for you. And often, these acts happen during some of the hardest moments in a patient’s life.

Why Trust Matters Most in Crisis

When a patient is facing fear, pain, or uncertainty, trust becomes the bridge between their vulnerability and your care. In these moments, clinical skills alone are not enough. Compassion, honesty, and presence can calm anxieties and make patients feel safe enough to let you in.

For example, during an emergency trauma admission, you might not have the luxury of a long conversation, but you can look the patient in the eyes, introduce yourself clearly, and explain every step you’re taking. That simple act communicates: You’re not alone, and I will guide you through this.

Real-Life Moments That Build the Bond

The Pre-Op Promise

One Nurse recalls caring for a young woman about to undergo open-heart surgery. The patient’s hands were shaking as she signed her consent form. The Nurse pulled up a chair, sat at eye level, and said, “I’ll be here when you wake up.” Hours later, when the patient opened her eyes in recovery, that same Nurse was standing right beside her. The relief on her face said everything, trust had been earned.

Staying Present in Loss

Another Nurse shared her experience with a family in the ICU whose loved one wasn’t going to make it. She didn’t have the right words, there are no perfect words, but she stayed in the room, adjusting blankets, offering tissues, and answering questions gently. Sometimes, trust isn’t about fixing the unfixable. It’s about being the steady presence when the world is falling apart.

Respecting Patient Fears

A Pediatric Nurse remembers a little boy who was terrified of needles. Instead of rushing, she knelt beside him, let him “give her a shot” with a toy syringe, and explained step-by-step what she was going to do. When it came time for the real injection, he squeezed her hand and said, “Okay, I'm ready.” That trust turned a moment of fear into a moment of bravery.

Practical Ways to Build Trust During Hard Times

• Be transparent – Even when the news is difficult, honesty fosters trust. Patients can sense when information is being withheld.

• Use their name – It’s a small thing, but it helps patients feel seen as a person, not a room number.

• Explain what you’re doing, even if it seems obvious – Especially in emergencies, a calm, clear voice can anchor a patient in chaos.

• Honor their dignity – Knock before entering, provide privacy, and respect personal boundaries.

• Show up when you say you will – Consistency builds reliability, which builds trust.

The Lasting Impact

Nurses may not remember every patient, but patients often remember their Nurses, especially the ones who showed compassion during their hardest days. The trust you build in those moments can be a source of comfort long after the hospital stay ends.

In the end, the nurse-patient bond isn’t just about care plans and medication schedules. It’s about creating a human connection strong enough to hold someone together when their world feels like it’s falling apart. And for Nurses, that’s both the privilege and the heart of the job.

Nursing shifts are no joke; 12 hours (or more) on your feet, juggling patient care, documentation, and the occasional code blue. In the middle of all that chaos, snacks become more than just food; they’re fuel, comfort, and sometimes the only thing keeping you from crashing halfway through. 

But not all snacks are created equal. Some energize you and keep your blood sugar stable, while others leave you drained and sluggish. Here’s a breakdown of the best and worst snacks to stash in your locker, break room, or scrub pocket.

🥇 The Best Snacks for Long Nursing Shifts

These snacks are portable, protein-packed, and made to go the distance, just like you.

1. Hard-Boiled Eggs

• Why it works: High in protein and healthy fats to keep you full.

• Pro tip: Pre-peel them for a quick grab-and-go option.
  
  

2. Greek Yogurt or Skyr

• Why it works: High in protein and calcium; great with a handful of berries or a drizzle of honey.

• Storage tip: Keep in a cooler bag or shared fridge.
  
  

3. Mixed Nuts or Trail Mix

• Why it works: Protein + fat + carbs = lasting energy.

• Watch out: Skip ones loaded with candy or extra salt.
  
  

4. Hummus and Veggie Sticks

• Why it works: Crunchy, refreshing, and satisfying without a crash.

• Meal-prep win: Pre-cut carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers in snack containers.
  
  

5. String Cheese or Babybel

• Why it works: Easy, mess-free protein and calcium boost.

• Bonus: Doesn’t take up much space in your lunch bag.
  
  

6. Tuna Packets or Chicken Salad Cups

• Why it works: High-protein and super filling.

• Try this: Scoop onto whole grain crackers or eat straight from the pouch.
  
  

7. Protein Bars (with Clean Ingredients)

• What to look for: 10+ grams of protein, low added sugar, no weird additives.

• Favorites: RXBAR, KIND Protein, or Quest.
  
  

8. Rice Cakes with Nut Butter

• Why it works: Carbs + healthy fat combo helps you power through.

• Add-ons: Banana slices or chia seeds for extra nutrition.
  
  

🥴 The Worst Snacks for Long Nursing Shifts

These may seem like quick fixes, but they usually lead to sugar crashes, energy dips, or growling stomachs before your next charting session.

1. Candy Bars

• Why not: Quick sugar rush = quick crash. Not the kind of code you want to run into.
  
  

2. Chips

• Why not: Empty calories, high sodium, and they don’t keep you full.
  
  

3. Pastries and Donuts

• Why not: Tempting during that morning huddle, but they’ll leave you crashing by lunch.
  
  

4. Energy Drinks

• Why not: Spikes your heart rate and can dehydrate you, water and electrolytes are safer long-term.
  
  

5. Flavored Yogurts

• Why not: Often packed with sugar, and the protein-to-sugar ratio isn’t ideal.
  
  

🧠 Smart Snacking Tips for Nurses

• Think “mini-meals”: Choose snacks that combine protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

• Hydrate or crash trying: Pair every snack with water. Dehydration = fatigue.

• Don’t skip breaks: When you fuel yourself properly, you take better care of others.

• Stock your locker: Keep shelf-stable snacks like nuts, bars, and jerky ready for backup.

💬 Final Thoughts

You deserve snacks that work as hard as you do. The right fuel can help you stay focused, energized, and avoid the dreaded 3 PM slump. A little planning goes a long way, your body and your patients will thank you.