Is there a nurse in your life who has made a huge impact on you? Whether you have a nurse in your family who shows up every day for you and their patients, or if you are one of those patients who wants to share some extra love with a nurse who helped you survive a tough ordeal: in honor of Thanksgiving, we came up with some affordable, clever, and unusual ways to say “thanks.”
Self Care Day
Nurses are notorious for putting others before themselves. So: get your favorite nurse a day of pampering at a spot that will really force them to relax. Give them a gift certificate for a massage, a round of golf at their favorite course, a day at the spa, or sports tickets. Not sure what to get them? Ask their colleagues or friends. EVERY nurse deserves a day to really restore, destress, and recharge. What better way to say thanks than to give them one?
Lunch on You
Everyone eats. Chances are, there is a place near the office where your nurse loves to order from. It’ll only take one or two phone calls to find out which one and surprise them with lunch delivered. Who doesn’t love free lunch?
Gift Cards
Gift cards can be the most convenient way to offer up a little piece of gratitude. If you’re really stumped: Amazon, Target, or cash gift cards go a long way. That also lets your favorite nurse get themselves whatever it is that they need or want. Nurses always need sturdy and comfortable work shoes, for example, so a Zappos gift card may be the perfect thank you present.
Healthy Snacks for the Department
Nurses always need (and want!) trays of nibbles to grab when they’re busy running around taking care of the floor. Healthy, homemade baked treats (provide that they’re yummy!) will surely be appreciated. Low sugar, healthy snack bars (Kind Bars, protein bars, etc.) are easy to leave out in the kitchen area for those busy shift nurses who didn’t have time to grab breakfast.
Kindness
Patients in long-term care (of any kind) know how intimate the patient/nurse relationship can be. Saying the words: “I can’t tell you how much I appreciate all the help you give me” can go a long, long way. Same goes for the loved ones and family of the patient. Nurses on the ward who are caring for your friends, spouses, parents, siblings, and children will find it equally comforting and loving if those same words come from you. Nurses don’t expect to hear “thank you” for the countless hours of care they provide, but they sure do appreciate hearing it.
Are you ready to become an LVN in just over a year so you can start making a difference in the lives of countless families? Contact us today and take the next step towards your new career as a nurse.
