Equipment & Suppliers
Learn more about the equipment & supplies you use in your everyday role on the Medshop Australia blog. Here, we explore some of the most commonly used kit and medical equipment manufacturing brands to provide you with all the information you need to make informed purchases for your job in the healthcare industry. Read on to discover a world of medical equipment and everyday gear or contact us today to discuss your specific requirements.
May 08, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
8 Best Nurse Christmas Gifts
With Christmas fast approaching, now is the ideal time to start your festive shopping spree and find the perfect gift for the special nurse in your life. Whether they’ve been in the profession for decades, or have only just qualified as a healthcare professional, nurses need more appreciation, love and pampering this year than ever before. So, to help you find a fantastic nurse Christmas gift for your friend or loved one this year, we’ve put together a list of the best nurse Christmas gifts for 2024. 1. New Shoes Nurses spend a lot of time on their feet. This can lead to aches, pains and in some cases, ongoing back problems. One of the best ways to prevent long term issues and alleviate day-to-day pain is to wear comfortable, high quality nursing shoes. Sanita San Flex clogs make fantastic nurse Christmas gifts. Specially designed to relieve pressure on the legs and back, these durable, non-slip leather clogs can be worn on the wards day in, day out. Sanita makes a range of high quality clogs and nurse shoes, including open heel and lightweight Wave Knit shoes. This should make it easy to find the perfect pair to go under your Christmas tree. 2. A Nursing Kit Nursing kits contain a great range of specially selected tools and equipment, making them ideal Christmas nurse gifts. Contents vary, but most kits come complete with a stethoscope, sphygmomanometer and bag. Some also include LED penlights, fob watches, safety glasses and other essential accessories nurses use on a daily basis. If you’re looking for bulk nurse Christmas gifts, affordable nursing kits are the perfect choice. Offering great value for money, they’ll help to give new nurses and nursing students everything they need to kick start their careers. If you have a slightly bigger budget, why not opt for a Littmann Classic III nursing kit? Containing a range of high quality products all in a handy pouch, this attractive kit will make a great Christmas gift for a nurse this festive period. 3. Nursing Watches Time is often critical on hospital wards and in other medical settings. Nurses often use watches to help them calculate a patient’s heart rate and monitor a patient’s symptoms throughout the day. So, if you’re looking for Christmas gifts for nurse coworkers that are affordable and useful, watches are a great choice. You can make your gift even more practical by investing in colourful silicone fob watch cases. These cases make it easier for nurses to attach fob watches to their scrubs, protect the watch mechanism from knocks and scrapes, and add a bright splash of colour to the uniform. Stylish gunmetal silver, blue mesh and rose gold watches are also available. However, as they cost a little more than basic watches and standard silicone cases, they’re less suitable as bulk nurse gifts for Christmas. 4. Pens and Penlights Pens and penlights come in handy in pretty much all medical settings. Whether they need to jot down an order from a doctor or get a better visual of a patient’s throat, pens and penlights are essential everyday tools for most nurses. Penlights come in two broad categories: those suitable for optical use and those not recommended for vision checks. It’s important to select the right tool for the job in order to get accurate results, so make sure you check the product description before you invest. Due to the light intensity and brilliant white light we do not recommend use penlights for ophthalmic vision or neuro observations (unless they are designed for vision check). Investing in a high quality penlight will help to ensure your gift is useful and long lasting. 5. Compression Support Socks While compression socks may not be the most glamorous gift for nurses this Christmas, they are definitely one of the most practical. Helping to relieve pressure in the legs and prevent conditions like edema, phlebitis and thrombosis, compression socks will help to keep nurses comfortable throughout the working day. If you’re looking to buy nurse Christmas gifts in bulk, keep it simple with affordable black compression socks from Prestige. However, if you want your gifts to really stand out, why not give your friends or loved ones some eye-catching multi-coloured fashion support socks from Cherokee? 6. New Nursing Scrubs Brand new medical scrubs make fantastic school nurse Christmas gifts. A stylish new scrub top will help the nurse in your life to look smart when treating their patients. Buy a bold purple scrub top to help brighten up the ward or a set of playful print scrubs if the person you’re buying for works with paediatric patients. Because nurses wear scrubs every day, this is one of the best Christmas gifts for a nurse and is guaranteed to come in useful every year. Additionally, jogger scrubs and jackets are excellent options for colder environments, ensuring comfort and warmth. Investing in some high quality tools, equipment or accessories is a great way to show the nurse in your life that you care. To find out more about any of these products, or to start shopping for festive presents of your own, take a look around our collection today. 7. ID Holders & Retractors ID holders and retractors serve as practical and convenient gifts for nurses, providing them with easy access to their identification badges and keys while on duty. These accessories offer functionality and efficiency, allowing nurses to keep essential items close at hand without compromising mobility or comfort. 8. Nurse Organizer Bag A Nurse Organizer Bag serves as a practical and thoughtful gift for nurses, providing them with a convenient and efficient way to carry essential items during their shifts. These specialized bags are designed with nurses' needs in mind, offering multiple compartments and pockets to keep medical supplies, personal belongings, and work essentials organized and easily accessible like the Elite Bags KEENS Nurse Organiser. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
April 29, 2024
Carolyn Cumper
What do Different Colour Scrubs Mean?
Go to any hospital or health centre in the world and you’re likely to see medical professionals dressed in scrubs. A lot of the time, you’ll see people in different coloured scrubs, with blue, teal, purple, white, black and green all among the most commonly spotted tones. Many people believe that these colours denote a person’s role or seniority. However, while this may be true in some health centres, in many cases it just comes down to the personal preference of the wearer or the dress code of the hospital. For example, doctors and nurses who work with children often choose brightly coloured pink, purple or printed scrubs to create a welcoming atmosphere, while those who work in emergency care might opt for a dark colour like navy or black to hide the sweat patches generated by their fast-paced work. In our experience, surgeons and surgical nurses often favor green scrubs due to their association with sterility and visual comfort during lengthy procedures. In some hospitals, darker scrubs show that a person holds a position of authority. While in other healthcare settings different colours indicate the various areas of medicine staff specialise in. The surgical team might wear teal scrubs while maternity unit workers might opt for pink or red scrubs. Before investing in new scrubs, we advise you to consult with your supervisor or HR department to ensure compliance. If you’re looking at scrubs and trying to decide which colour to choose for your new workwear, take a look at our guide to different colour scrubs and how to choose the right set for you. What are the Different Colours of Scrubs? Scrubs come in a wide range of colours and the most common colours are: Blue Teal Pink Green Purple Grey Black Blue is an enduringly popular choice for all types of medical workers. Blue scrubs look smart and the colour is closely associated with the medical profession. Teal scrubs and Caribbean blue scrubs are also commonly seen in all types of medical settings. Scrubs are also readily available in pink, green, white and purple. Neutral colours like grey and black are becoming increasingly common in health centres. If you like the idea of a neutral colour but want something a little different, why not choose an off-black pewter set of scrubs for your workwear? What Do Dark Blue Scrubs Mean? Often, dark blue scrubs are worn by doctors and senior nurses in order to differentiate them from more junior staff. Traditionally, nurses wore white outfits, so it made sense for doctors to wear darker shades. However, as roles have become more varied and dress codes less rigid, a lot of medical professionals have chosen to mix up the colour of their scrubs and choose a shade that suits their personality rather than their job title. Dark blue scrubs are a good choice for people who want a flattering but professional look. They’re also good for hiding stains and marks and can help doctors and nurses to look good throughout the working day. In some hospitals, blue scrubs are worn by doctors and nurses working on medical wards while teal and green scrubs are worn by surgical staff. In these cases, it’s best to stick to the colour code of your area and speciality to ensure you’re easily identifiable. What Do the Colours of Nurses Uniforms Mean? The colours of nurses’ uniforms don’t have any universal meanings, however some hospitals and healthcare centres do use different tones to differentiate roles. Talk to your hospital to find out if they’ve colour-coded their scrubs before you start shopping. Nursing scrubs come in a wide choice of colours ranging from light, bright whites and greys to deep purples and blacks. Often, more senior nurses will wear darker scrubs. This makes them easy to spot in a crowd and ensures other professionals can find an experienced nurse quickly in an emergency. Trainee nurses and newly qualified healthcare professionals often wear lighter scrubs like pale blue and green. It’s becoming common for nurses working in gynaecology and obstetrics to choose pink, red or purple scrubs over blue and green options. These warm, welcoming colours make these specialist nurses easily identifiable and help to create a positive atmosphere on the ward. What is the Significance of Different Colours of Scrubs? Different colours can have different effects on the look and feel of a hospital or health centre. If you can choose any colour you want for your scrubs, or if you’re a healthcare manager selecting new uniforms, thinking carefully about colour will help you make the perfect choice. Blue – Blue scrubs are commonly found and frequently selected for their soothing influence. They epitomize trust, reliability, and professionalism making them a great choice for all types of healthcare environments. We suggest the Cherokee WW620 V-Neck Caribbean Blue or the Cherokee 4700 Scrubs V-Neck Ceil Blue. Teal – another popular choice, teal scrubs are often worn by surgeons and surgical nurses. The color is selected not only for its calming properties but also for its association with cleanliness and sterility, essential attributes in operating room environments. We suggest the Cherokee WW610 Mock Wrap Teal or the Cherokee WW645 V-Neck Teal. Green – like teal, green scrubs are linked with cleanliness and are a common choice among surgical teams. Surgeons and surgical nurses frequently choose green scrubs for their association with sterility and their ability to provide visual comfort during extended procedures. teal and green may be used interchangeably depending on personal preference or institutional guidelines. We suggest the Cherokee 4700 V-Neck Hunter Green and the Cherokee WW610 Scrubs Mock Wrap Hunter Green. Black – black scrubs can have a very formal look. Black helps to conceal stains and dirt, which is handy in busy emergency situations. Additionally, their professional and authoritative appearance makes them ideal for healthcare workers in high-stress environments such as emergency departments. We suggest the Cherokee WW698 Black and the Cherokee 4700 Scrubs Top V-Neck Black. White – white scrubs are also a popular choice for private clinics. You may well also see dentists and dental nurses wearing white scrubs as they give the wearer a clean, crisp appearance where maintaining a sterile environment is paramount. We suggest the Cherokee CK865A White and the Cherokee WW610 Mock Wrap White. Grey – grey scrubs are increasingly popular, they have a modern feel but are less formal than black or white outfits. This makes them perfect for health centres that want a contemporary, but approachable, aesthetic. We suggest Cherokee 4801 Mock Wrap Tunic Grey and the Cherokee 4700 V-Neck Grey. Pink – bright pink scrubs are often found on paediatric wards and in maternity units. Pediatric nurses, child life specialists, and pediatricians commonly wear pink scrubs to create a friendly and welcoming environment for young patients and their families. We suggest Cherokee WW610 Mock Wrap Electric Pink and the Cherokee 4700 V-Neck Shocking Pink. Red – red and burgundy scrubs are also commonly found in clinics and on wards specialising in women’s health. A little bolder than pink scrubs, they’re often chosen by more senior nurses and doctors. We suggest the Cherokee 4700 V-Neck Red. Purple - Purple scrubs are favored by some healthcare professionals, particularly those working in specialized units or with specific patient populations such as mental health nurses. Purple represents creativity, dignity, and respect, qualities valued in providing individualized care. The colour of your scrubs can have a big impact on the look of your workplace. Find out more, and select the perfect set of scrubs for your role, by exploring our collection today. FAQ What Color Scrubs do Surgeons Wear? Surgeons typically wear scrubs in solid colors such as green, or teal because of their established association with sterility and visual comfort during surgeries. These colors are selected for their ability to reduce eye strain under the bright operating room lights while maintaining a professional appearance. However, it's essential for surgeons to follow the dress code policies of their hospital or surgical facility. Ultimately, the choice of scrub color should prioritize both functionality and adherence to institutional regulations. What Color Scrubs do Nurses Wear? Nurses typically wear scrubs in a range of colors, determined by both workplace guidelines and individual preferences. Among the common choices are blue, teal, navy, black, green, and occasionally, patterned or printed designs. The specific color may vary based on factors such as the nurse's specialty, institutional dress code, or identification protocols. Ultimately, nurses should select scrubs that meet both workplace regulations and their personal comfort and functional needs. What Colour Scrubs do Doctors Wear in Australia? When selecting scrubs, doctors should prioritize comfort and professionalism. Opting for colors like navy, black, or dark shades of blue or green can convey a sense of authority and cleanliness, while also helping to hide stains in the fast-paced hospital environment. However, it's important to adhere to any specific color-coding systems or dress code policies established by the hospital or healthcare facility. Ultimately, doctors should choose scrub colors that not only meet institutional guidelines but also make them feel confident and ready to provide the best possible care to their patients. What Colour Scrubs do Midwives Wear? When it comes to selecting scrub colors for midwives, it's essential to consider both practicality and professionalism. Midwives should opt for colors that promote a calming and approachable atmosphere while also maintaining a sense of professionalism. Colors like teal or green are often preferred for their association with serenity and cleanliness, ideal qualities in a birthing environment. However, it's crucial to consult with your hospital's dress code policies to ensure compliance with any color-coding systems or guidelines in place. Ultimately, midwives should choose scrub colors that not only reflect their personal style but also contribute to a positive and comfortable birthing experience for their patients. Author: Carolyn Cumper's career spans from being a Patrol Officer in Rhodesia to a Paediatric Nurse in the UK, and later a Deputy Hospice Manager in Australia. Her diverse journey includes roles in law enforcement, healthcare, and business, culminating in her significant contributions to Medshop.
April 29, 2024
Steven Cumper
Best Omron Blood Pressure Monitors in 2024
Omron blood pressure monitors are some of the most respected pieces of kit within the healthcare industry, check our our guide to the Medshop range.
April 12, 2024
Steven Cumper
How to Use a Sphygmomanometer the Correct Way
Learn how sphygmomanometers work, and how to use a sphygmomanometer the correct way with Medshop.
April 02, 2024
Steven Cumper
Gift Ideas for Your Favourite Medical Professional
As frontline heroes, medical professionals devote their lives to caring for others and our loved ones with compassion and expertise. Whether they're saving lives in the emergency room, comforting patients in clinics, or conducting groundbreaking research, their dedication knows no bounds. Now, it's our turn to express gratitude and appreciation for their tireless dedication. Whether it's a gesture of thanks for their unwavering commitment or a token of encouragement to uplift their spirits, finding the perfect gift for your favorite medical professional is a meaningful endeavor. In this guide, we present a curated selection of thoughtful and practical gift ideas sure to bring joy and comfort to those who dedicate their lives to healing others. From essential tools aiding their daily practice to luxurious treats offering moments of relaxation, let's discover various ways to express gratitude to our dedicated heroes in scrubs. Here are our tips and suggestions to help take the pressure off. Tip 1: Find out what they want What you don't want to happen is your present is opened and met with a "what is it?" or an, "oh great thanks, another stethoscope." You might not want to give away the surprise but everyone appreciates receiving something they want and need for, so sometimes it is best to just ask. Consider reaching out to colleagues, friends, or family members who are familiar with the doctor's personality and preferences. They may offer valuable insights or suggestions that can guide your gift selection process. Tip 2: Enlist help How kind of you to offer to purchase a piece of medical equipment for your loved one. You're sure to win you some awesome gift-giver points and they'll be super grateful, but what if you can't afford the gift they really want? You have a couple of options... both require a little help from your friends. For starters, you can contact us for advice. Let's say they want a Welch Allyn PanOptic / Macroview Diagnostic Set. In case you didn't know, this diagnostic set is the top of the range and it is the ideal set for those who want to do the very best for their patients. High-quality medical equipment always comes with a price tag, and it is true in this case that you get what you pay for, but that doesn't mean you absolutely must go top-range. In this case, we might recommend you purchase the next level down, like the Welch Allyn Coaxial / Macroview Diagnostic Set. Your cherished medical professional can always upgrade to a PanOptic in later years. As an alternative, you could enlist the help of some other friends or family members and present the desired diagnostic set as a group present. Sharing the cost amongst several people allows you to give the gift they want, and not exceed your gift budget. Tip 3: Just because they have what they need, doesn't mean they have everything they want Got a loved one who seems to have it all? Stethoscope? Yes. Diagnostic set? Yes. Scrubs? Yes. Fob watches? Yes. Option 1: Maybe they could use a spare? A pair and a spare, it can actually be really useful to have a spare stethoscope, diagnostic set, or pair of scrubs handy. Things can go missing, it is a fact of life and wouldn't it be nice to have a backup ready waiting for such times? By presenting the gift as a spare, it actually seems very thoughtful and not at all unoriginal. Option 2: Get creative! Anatomical models, anatomical posters, books, socks, bags and cases, we have them all. Have a browse through our range and we are sure you will find something unique and original to give to the person who seems to have everything. Option 3: Consider how to ease their pains by offering something better. One of our most requested products are shoes and clogs. Doctors spend long hours on their feet, so a pair of supportive and comfortable shoes can help alleviate their fatigue and prevent foot pain. Still stuck? See tip #2, about contacting us, or use this quick reference guide for ideas to stimulate your creative mind. Top Gift Ideas for Nurses Stethoscopes: The Littmann Classic II and Littmann Classic III are the industry go to stethoscopes for nurses. Fob watches: With a huge range of colours and designs like the Silicone Nursing FOB Watch, a nurse can never have too many fob watches. Nursing Pockets/Pouches: Designed to carry all the essentials a busy nurse needs on the job ID's and retractables: In wide range of designs, to help keep ID badges and swipe cards safe and within reach Top Gift Ideas for Doctors Doctors bag: An essential item for busy and traveling doctors. Stethoscope: Littmann Cardiology IV is our most popular stethoscope range for doctors. Anatomical models and posters: Perfect for the desk or office. Depending on the specialty of the doctor, could consider many options, like the Pharynx & Larynx Anatomical Chart, Basic Heart Model, or Mr. Plain Skeleton. Diagnostic sets: These vary depending on the needs of the individual practitioner, best to discuss this option with the recipient to determine which one best suits their needs. Top Gift Ideas for Students Student kits: Ideal for students getting started, the kits we stock vary in content and are a cost effective way to purchase essential student supplies. Educational cards: Flash cards, and other informative cards are a great resource for students to have on hand as they take up little space and can quickly inform the student of a particular process they need to learn or perform. Sphygmomanometer: For those not familiar a sphygmomanometer is a manual blood pressure monitor, we stock a range of vibrant colours, designs and sizes. Protective eyewear: for all those messy lab sessions and practicals, our range is sure to have something for everyone. As always if you need more advice on a particular product contact us and our helpful customer service team are always available to help Author: Steven John Cumper, B.App.SC. (Osteo.), M.Ost., is a businessman with a strong foundation in biomedical science and osteopathic medicine, who founded and led Medshop to international success, culminating in its acquisition by the Bunzl Group in September 2021, where he continues to serve as Managing Director (Medshop Group).
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