Nursing school is a rigorous ordeal, so it is essential students have the right tools. Some nursing school essentials include quality laptops, notetaking supplies, schedule planners, study space, clinical tools, a backpack, scrubs and comfortable shoes, a water bottle, reference materials, and more.
Entering nursing school is an exciting journey filled with opportunities for growth and learning. Your professors and institution will provide essential guidance on the textbooks and clinical tools you’ll need to thrive. By equipping yourself with the right resources and a positive mindset, you’ll be well-prepared to excel and flourish in your studies.
At Pacific Lutheran University (PLU), our full-time Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program in Lynnwood, near Seattle, Washington, can help you earn your bachelor’s in nursing in as few as 16 months. Designed as a degree for those without nursing experience, the ABSN program requires students to have a minimum of 60 completed college credits or a degree in a different study area to apply. Throughout your education, our dedicated staff will give you the tools to provide safe and competent nursing care to all individuals, families, and communities.
What supplies might you need for nursing school?
5 Nursing School Must-Haves
To start nursing school right, you’ll need the correct items. People’s budgets vary, but by investing in some nursing student essentials, you can set yourself up for long-term success.
Let’s look at a few necessities that will carry you on your nursing school journey.
1. Must-Have Technology for Nursing School
When it comes to online coursework, a laptop is crucial. PLU’s ABSN program is in a hybrid format, so most of your nursing school curriculum and resources will be on PLU’s online platform. Therefore, you’ll need a reliable device to complete many assignments. Laptops are an excellent tool for storing and accessing information, such as tutorials, research papers, e-books, and other materials that advance your knowledge on the go.
Technology can be expensive, so consider your long-term budget before purchasing.
2. A Planner for Nursing School
Throughout nursing school, you’ll have a packed schedule. While juggling rigorous coursework, skills labs and clinicals, you’ll need a digital or hard-copy planner to stay organized and meet deadlines.
3. Nursing School Note-taking Supplies
While there are electronic devices and apps that can help you record important information, handwritten notes can be a valuable study tactic. A 2024 Frontiers in Psychology study found that students who took handwritten notes had higher electrical activity levels across a range of brain regions responsible for movement, vision, sensory processing, and memory.
Use the right strategies and tools to get the best results from your notes. First, consider what learning style works best for you to determine what note-taking strategy and supplies to use.
Visual learners could try concept/mind mapping in their nursing notes. Create a picture, table, or chart that outlines the key concepts and expand from there into the supportive information. By purchasing a variety of highlighters, sticky notes, and pens, you can color-coordinate your notes by concept or topic.
For auditory learners, the Cornell notes system may be more suitable. List critical concepts as you encounter them during the lesson and add supplementary information later. Fortunately, with online coursework, you can review the materials as often as needed.
Are you still trying to figure out how to get the most out of your studying? Discover 10 nursing school study tips to finesse your review techniques.
4. Scrubs and Comfortable Shoes
Once enrolled, PLU will let you know which specific scrubs are required for your program.
Comfortable shoes are an important consideration. Whether tending to patients, running lab work, or completing various tasks, nurses spend much time on their feet. Plenty of brands make shoes specifically for nurses, but it’s best to compare reviews and preferences to select the perfect shoe. You’ll want to look for lightweight, flexible, and slip-resistant as description keywords.
Wearing compression socks could help improve circulation and ensure you stay comfortable throughout your shift.
5. An Optimal Study Space
In nursing school, your study space is sacred, and that’s doubly true for online programs. Your workspace needs to foster productivity and focus. Studies have shown that the environment impacts academic achievement.
When setting up your workspace, consider the following:
- Dedicate an area that you will primarily use for schoolwork.
- Select a quiet spot and be away from distractions like the television or gaming console.
- Put your cellphone in a drawer or airplane mode while studying.
- Take advantage of natural light, yet minimize glare from windows, lamps and overhead lights.
- Keep the workspace organized and free of clutter.
- Make sure your desk, chair, and computer setup are ergonomic to help prevent muscle strain. Be sure to use good posture.
- Maintain a comfortable temperature in the room.
- Personalize the area with décor you like and that helps motivate you.
- Stock up on study aides and nutritious snacks.
Your study space will be your hub for all things nursing. Make it a place where you want to spend time and help you concentrate.
Once your dedicated work area is created, set a study routine, prioritize your tasks and avoid multitasking. Remember to take breaks and stretch your legs. Both an optimized space and good habits will help foster nursing school success.
Don’t go into clinicals unprepared. Learn more about what to expect from clinical rotations.
Put Your Supplies to Use at Pacific Lutheran University
Use your nursing school essentials in our Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. At PLU, you’ll receive a comprehensive education based on the humanistic theory that advocates for continuing social progress and healthcare innovation. With the dedicated work of our faculty and admissions representatives, we are there every step of the way.
When you come to PLU, you invest in a high-quality nursing education that sets you up to earn your BSN and become a confident, professional nurse. Contact us today to speak with an admissions representative and learn more about our exciting ABSN program.