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DOSAGE CALCULATIONS: I recommend this Nursing Dosage Calculation Workbook to pre-nursing students to help them prepare for dosage calculations, as well as to nursing students who struggle with calculations. I love this workbook because it covers both basic dosage calculations and advanced IV rate calculations. The authors start with fundamental conversions and rounding, and of course, the answer key is included in the back of the book. It’s inexpensive and definitely worth the investment, especially considering that many nursing programs require students to pass a dosage calculation exam at the start of each semester. You can use this workbook independently, as practice truly makes perfect.

Of course, you can grab my free dosage calculation notes or check out my YouTube page, where I explain the five-step method for mastering dosage calculations.

STUDY ESSENTIALS: BUYIFY Folding Lap Desk is beneficial for providing a comfortable and portable workspace. It allows you to study or complete assignments in various locations—whether at home, in a café, or during breaks between classes. With a stable surface for writing and a place to set up a laptop or textbooks, a lap desk helps promote better posture and reduces strain on the neck and back. This versatility can enhance productivity and create a more organized study environment, making it easier to balance coursework and clinical responsibilities.

STETHOSCOPE: Ah, our favorite accessory—our superpower: the stethoscope! While getting into nursing school is exciting, it's important not to overspend on fancy supplies. As a nursing student, I recommend choosing an affordable stethoscope that also offers good quality.

As a student nurse, you'll be traveling back and forth between various clinical rotations, simulation labs, and study groups. It’s easy to misplace your stethoscope, and you don’t want to throw your money away. Look for a quality stethoscope that will last for years, yet won’t break the bank if you happen to lose it.

I recommend the 3M Littmann Lightweight and the MDF Instruments Acoustica Lightweight Stethoscope—they both fit the bill perfectly!

If you're a new graduate nurse, and in need of a graduation gift, I recommend the 3M Littmann Classic III Monitoring Stethoscope. It offers excellent clarity and loud sound quality, making it a great graduation gift. Don’t be afraid to ask your support system for one!

NCLEX PREP- You all know I swear by the O.P.R.A. method! To effectively use this method, it’s essential to have a question bank (Qbank) with rationales. I love the Kaplan system because of its techniques, decision trees, and strategies. While Kaplan is traditional, it definitely works. By combining the NurseKay's O.P.R.A. method with Kaplan's Qbank, you can't go wrong. Kaplan offers practice questions for both Next Generation NCLEX-PN and Next Generation NCLEX-RN Another program I recommend is Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN which also has an extensive Qbank and Nursing Mnemonics Coloring Book is great for visual learners.

ON-THE-JOB ESSENTIALS: If you're a new graduate nurse, I recommend the Dansko Women's Professional Clog Slip-On. These shoes are water-resistant, easy to clean, and most importantly, comfortable. However, if you're a nursing student, I suggest not spending too much on shoes. Since you won't be working 36 hours a week, you can find affordable options. The INZCOU Running Shoes are lightweight, stylish, and come in various colors. Keep in mind that unlike the Dansko clogs, these are made of mesh material, which means they are not water-resistant. You'll need to use Lysol spray to disinfect them instead of sanitizing wipes.

New graduate nurses can also grab my free report sheets on the website. These compact sheets will help you avoid carrying around tons of papers or a bulky clipboard.

For nursing students, the Tribe RN Ultimate Nursing Clipboard Set is a great resource. It includes clinical review notes and is perfect for keeping all your clinical notes organized.

MEAL PREP: I’m a firm believer in using automation and strategies to make your nursing school experience organized and streamlined. The goal is to do anything that boosts your productivity in studying, which is why I advocate for meal prep and on-the-go meals. This approach will give you more time for studying and help you stay healthy. A poor diet can lead to a foggy mind and fatigue, so prioritizing nutritious meals is essential. NETANY 6-pack 16 oz Overnight Oats Containers with Lids are great for oats, yogurts and salads or anything that you want specialty preserved and Ez Prepa - 10 Pack Bento Box Meal Prep Containers are great for any everyday meal. My favorite personalized smoothie kit is the La Reveuse Smoothies Blender.

SELF CARE: Nursing school is rigorous, but it’s essential to maintain a healthy balance. You’re still in school, and you should enjoy your experience. Creating a healthy work/life balance involves engaging in self-care, whether it’s hanging out with friends, catching a movie, going to the gym, walking in the park, or indulging in some at-home self-care.

I advocate for home self-care activities, like having a spa day once a week or hosting a movie night with friends, family, or a partner. I recommend the 15-Piece Luxury Relaxing Spa Kit and the 7-Color Light-Based Face-Neck Massager. These tools are long-lasting and are a fantastic way to prioritize self-care during the semester.

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