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Discover the Medshop blog and learn everything you need to know to successfully complete your studies for any medical role. Students will find a wealth of educational information and resources, offers and discounts, competitions and events, and information on our scholarship programs. Explore the blog or contact us today to discuss medical equipment and supplies.
November 24, 2022
Carolyn Cumper
6 Best Nurse Christmas Gifts 2024
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. Penlights that aren’t recommended for vision checks can be used to look in the throat and to make it easier for nurses to closely examine cuts, abrasions and other injuries their patients may have. 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 patientsl. 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. 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. 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.
November 16, 2022
Carolyn Cumper
The Best Scrubs for Summer
Summer can be a difficult time to work on hospital wards and in medical clinics. Even if air conditioning is installed, soaring outside temperatures combined with hard physical work can make summer a challenging season for doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals. One way to combat the seasonal heat is to invest in lightweight summer scrubs. Wearing breathable, light summer scrubs should help you to stay comfortable even when the mercury is rising outside. If temperatures in your workplace are starting to climb, take a look at our pick of the best scrubs for summer. Invest in some comfortable, seasonal workwear now and get through the coming heatwave unscathed. What Are the Coolest Scrubs for Summer? Scrubs are naturally cool, comfortable clothes. Their loose fit, short sleeves and lightweight materials make them perfect for use in summer, especially in hospitals and clinics without climate control. If you find your usual set of scrubs is still too hot, changing your outfit could make a big difference. Investing in scrub tops and scrub bottoms that are made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials will help to keep you cool and allow sweat to evaporate easily from your body. Choosing light, bright summer colour scrubs, like white or khaki, will also help to keep your temperature down. What’s more, you may want to avoid scrubs that are tightly fitted as this can inhibit airflow and make you feel hot and sweaty. If your current set of scrubs have a slimline design, why not swap them for a looser, cooler set this summer? What’s the Best Material for Lightweight Summer Scrubs? There are a couple of things you need to consider when looking for lightweight scrubs for summer. Two of the most important are moisture wicking and breathability. A fabric that has good moisture wicking capabilities is able to draw sweat away from the body quickly and efficiently. This can help to keep you dry, even in very hot conditions, and prevent odours and discomfort. Generally, synthetic textiles are better at wicking moisture away from the body than natural fabrics. Polyester is one of the best moisture wicking materials, while nylon and polypropylene also perform well in hot conditions. So, if you’re looking for moisture wicking scrubs for summer, look for a pair that contains these textiles. Cherokee Workwear Revolution WW610 scrub tops and Cherokee Workwear Revolution WW620 scrub tops both contain 78% polyester as well as 20% rayon and 2% spandex. This means they should be good at wicking moisture away from the body and keeping you dry during the summer months. Another good way to stay cool in hot weather is to buy a set of breathable scrubs for summer. Cotton is one of the most lightweight, breathable fabrics there is, so selecting scrubs with a high cotton content should help to keep you comfortable in hot weather. Cherokee Workwear WW645, 4700 and WW650 scrubs all contain 35% cotton and 65% polyester. Some styles also have built-in side vents, making it even easier to keep cool in hot weather. What’s the Best Colour for Summer Scrubs Tops? Choosing bright, light scrubs for summer will help to keep you comfortable when temperatures start to rise. Dark colours tend to absorb heat while light colours reflect it, so try to avoid shades like navy and black when it’s hot outside. Instead, opt for white, light blue or pink scrubs for your summer wardrobe. Another good reason to choose a light, bright scrub top is that it will look more cheerful and more summery. However, if your hospital has a colour code for its wards or roles, you may be limited as to the colours you can choose. If this is the case in your workplace, make sure you talk to your manager before you start shopping for your summer scrubs wardrobe. What to Wear Under Scrubs in Summer? Most doctors and nurses choose to wear clothes under their scrubs when they’re at work. As layering up garments can trap warm air close to the body and make you feel even hotter, it’s important to think carefully about what you wear under your scrubs this summer. When choosing undergarments, try to select pieces made from moisture wicking fabrics like polyester. Avoid tops made from cotton as it will trap sweat and make you feel damp and uncomfortable in hot conditions. Choosing a tight-fitting top to wear under your loose scrub top can also help to keep your temperature down. Tank tops and t-shirts that fit tightly against the skin won’t trap as much air and so will allow heat to escape from your body more easily. Pairing a tight tank top with a loose-fitting scrub top should be the most cooling combination of summer scrubs for nurses. Another option is to look for activewear that’s specifically designed to help wick moisture away from the body and keep the wearer cool. Wearing clothes that are made for runners and people in the gym could be a great way to beat the heat and stay cool, even when you’re hard at work. Alternatively, forgo your underlayer altogether and stick to simple scrubs instead. In fact, there are some areas of a hospital where underlayers are specifically not allowed for hygiene reasons. These include operating theatres and areas where immunocompromised people are being cared for. Treating yourself to bright, lightweight, moisture-wicking scrubs this summer will help you to carry out your duties and care for your patients in comfort. To find out more about our pick of the best summer scrubs, or to start shopping for a set of scrubs of your own, take a look around our collection today.
September 15, 2022
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, 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. Surgeons and surgical nurses often wear green or teal scrubs. 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. However, this isn’t always the case so it’s important to check with your hospital or health centre before investing in a new set. 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 is a colour commonly associated with the medical profession. A naturally calming colour, blue is a great choice for all types of healthcare environments. Teal – another popular choice, teal scrubs are often worn by surgeons and surgical nurses. This helps to differentiate them from other medical staff while ensuring they look smart and professional. Green – like blue, green is a calming tone. It also has a fresh feel that can help to brighten up wards and healthcare centres. Black – black scrubs can have a very formal look. Often selected for private clinics and treatment centres, it’s less common to see black scrubs in hospitals or doctors’ surgeries. 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. Grey – grey scrubs 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. Pink – bright pink scrubs are often found on paediatric wards and in maternity units. Bold and cheerful, they have a feminine look and a welcoming, friendly feel. 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. 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. 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.
September 09, 2022
Carolyn Cumper
Nursing Doctorates in Australia – A Guide
Nurses in Australia carry out a wide range of specialist, highly skilled roles. Many of these roles require extra training and extensive clinical experience in a particular field. One of the most advanced options open to nurses in Australia is a doctoral degree. These highly respected higher education courses allow nurses to become academic doctors and to advance the research, knowledge and skills in their area of specialism. What’s more, medical professionals with a doctor of nursing degree generally have a wider choice of career opportunities and are likely to earn a significantly higher wage than colleagues without a professional doctorate. If you’re considering adding a doctorate to your CV, here’s everything you need to know about PhDs and DNPs in Australia. What is a PhD in Nursing Australia? A PhD in nursing is the next academic step open to nurses that have already completed a master degree. A PhD program generally takes four to six years to complete. The time it takes will depend on whether you study full-time or part-time. During a nursing PhD, candidates will undertake focused research on a particular area of healthcare. This research may involve conducting interviews, data analysis, site visits and relevant reading. Once students have completed their research, they’ll produce a thesis on their chosen subject. This thesis will be evaluated by a panel of academics. Is a DNP Higher Than a PhD? The two main forms of doctorate available to nurses are DNPs and PhDs. A DNP is a Doctor of Nursing Practice, a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy, focusing on nursing, midwifery, or both. PhDs are considered research degrees while DNPs are practice degrees. Nurses studying DNPs tend to continue working in clinical environments while those studying for a PhD often work in academic research settings. These two different pathways are equally respected and equally challenging. Both qualifications award successful candidates the title of doctor. The route you take depends on your interests, your career goals and your area of focus. Can a Nurse with a PhD Call Themselves Doctor? Anyone who successfully completes a PhD is entitled to call themselves a doctor. However, as this can cause confusion in the medical profession, it’s advisable for nurses with a PhD or a DNP to clarify their qualifications when working with patients. In many cases, it may be more appropriate to place letters after your name than to put a ‘Dr.’ before it. This can help to prevent patients and colleagues from becoming confused and keep things a little simpler when working in a clinical environment. Can You Do a Doctorate in Nursing? Both DNPs and PhDs are doctorates. DNPs are specifically aimed at nurses looking to improve their nursing education. These hands-on degrees require extensive clinical practice as well as graduate research and academic study. A PhD is also known as a Doctor of Philosophy. It’s the most common type of doctorate available to Australian nurses. How Do I Become a Doctor of Nursing in Australia? If you think a PhD could be the perfect next step in your professional development, the first thing you need to do is find a university that offers the course. You can then check their entry requirements to ensure you’re eligible to apply. Most universities expect candidates to have completed a bachelor degree and a master’s degree in nursing and to have a few years of clinical experience under their belts. You’ll also need to pay tuition fees and complete all course requirements before obtaining your doctorate. What is a Doctor of Nursing Degree? A Doctor of Nursing degree is specifically aimed at nurses and healthcare workers. It’s the highest level of postgraduate academic qualification that nurses can achieve and entitles successful candidates to be called doctor. In order to be successful, your thesis will need to offer an original contribution on a subject that hasn’t previously been covered by another candidate. How Can a Nurse Get a PhD? If you want to complete a PhD, you’ll first need to undertake a master’s degree in nursing or a related field like public health or mental health. You’ll then need to apply to universities that offer the course. In some cases, you’ll need to present a research proposal outlining your planned area of study, and suggested methodologies of research, during the application process. If you’re accepted, you’ll need to work extensively on your research project in order to complete your thesis. You may also be required to carry out additional coursework and attain a certain level in your professional practice. Can I Get a Doctorate in Nursing in Australia? If you were born in Australia or New Zealand and are already working as a registered nurse or nurse practitioner, you should be entitled to apply for a doctorate course. However, in most cases you’ll need to complete a higher degree, like a master’s before you can start your advanced studies. Unlike domestic students, international students may need to pass an English exam (IELTS) and acquire permanent resident status before they can apply. What are the Benefits of a Doctorate in Nursing? In order to obtain a Doctorate in Nursing, you’ll need to study for a number of years full-time, pay tuition fees and take on a considerable amount of extra work. So, it’s good to know there are considerable benefits to doing a Doctorate in Nursing and Midwifery. For a start, nurses who obtain a doctorate can earn a significantly higher wage than nurses without the qualification. In the US, nurses with a PhD earn around $10,000 more per year than colleagues with the next-highest qualification. Having a doctorate can also open up new professional pathways and allow for a career in academia or teaching. What is the Difference Between a PhD and DNP? A PhD is a research-based course. Nurses that choose to do a PhD often base themselves in a university or research setting and many stop working with patients during their university semesters. A DNP is a practice-based course. Nurses working towards a DNP will generally continue to work in a clinical environment and see patients throughout their studies. What is the Best PhD in Nursing? All nursing PhDs offered by Australian universities are highly respected. Among the institutions offering the course are: The University of Sydney The University of Melbourne The University of Adelaide The University of Tasmania La Trobe University Find out more about nursing in Australia, and explore our collection of nursing supplies, by taking a look around today.
August 26, 2022
Carolyn Cumper
Which Nursing Speciality Should I Choose?
Nursing is an important, highly skilled career that requires a huge amount of dedication, hard work and commitment. A lot of people are drawn to nursing because they want to help others, work as part of a team and do a job that really makes a difference. What many entering the profession don’t realise is that there’s a large amount of variation within the world of nursing. From school nurses to paediatric nurses and ED nurses to home help, nurses take on a wide variety of roles and specialities. If you’re just starting out on your nursing journey, you may well be thinking about which nursing speciality is right for you. As this will have a huge impact on your future career, it’s important to get the choice just right. To help you whittle down the options and find your perfect role, we’re looking at some of the different speciality nursing jobs you have to choose from. What to Consider When Choosing a Nursing Speciality Deciding which avenue you want to follow isn’t always easy. Different specialities offer different working environments, challenges and even salaries. If you’re struggling to decide which type of speciality nursing to pursue, here are some of the most important things to consider before making your choice. Interests Start by thinking about which areas of medicine you’re most interested in. If you love working with children, you could choose to become a paediatric nurse. If you enjoy being in a fast-paced and a varied environment, you could become an emergency or critical care nurse. While, if you enjoy a slower pace and find satisfaction in getting to know your patients, you could go into speciality nursing home care. Training Although some specialities, like elderly care, are entry level positions, others require extra training and speciality nursing certifications. If you’re currently working as a nurse and want to transition to speciality practice nursing programs in order to advance your career, you’ll need to find out what training is available in your area. Speak to speciality nursing organizations to learn which courses are available near you and what nursing speciality certification you’ll need for your dream job. It’s important to remember that these extra speciality nursing courses can add a significant amount onto the time and cost of your professional training. This could mean it takes longer for you to start earning a salary and will probably add to your student debt. You’ll need to weigh this up when deciding if a speciality is the right choice for you. Location As the name suggests, specialty jobs are often only available in certain locations. For example, if you want to work as an emergency department nurse, you’ll need to be within commuting distance of a hospital that takes urgent cases. And if you want to work as an elderly care nurse, you’ll need to be within easy reach of a nursing home or supported living accommodation. If you’re not able to relocate for work, you may be limited to jobs available in your local area. Talk to nearby hospitals and medical centres to find out which specialities are on offer near you. Working Hours Because many patients need care around the clock, a lot of nurses are required to work shifts. While shifts suit some people, they’re not for everyone and can be difficult for people with young children and other commitments. If you’d rather work a 9 to 5, you might find a job in a clinic or doctor’s surgery is better suited to your lifestyle. Job Pace When choosing a speciality in nursing, it’s a good idea to think about the environment you want to spend your working life in. Different specialities, while often equally challenging, can be very differently paced. For example, if you’re a school nurse, you’ll probably be dealing with trips, falls and slips and should have a relatively low-key working day. While if you’re a critical care nurse, or if you work in an emergency department, your work is likely to be fast-paced, high-stress and unpredictable. If you’re the sort of person who thrives on adrenaline, a high-octane speciality could be the perfect choice. However, if you know you work better in a calmer, quieter environment, a more tranquil speciality could suit you better. Patient Engagement Although every nursing speciality is patient-focused, the amount you actually get to interact with the people you care for can vary significantly between jobs. Critical care nurses for example often work with people who are unconscious or hooked up to ventilators, while nurses working in an emergency department might only see their patients when they’re being treated for serious injuries. These patients are often then transferred to other parts of the hospital for further care. On the other hand, paediatric nurses and elderly care nurses often have the time to work closely with their patients and to build a relationship with the people they care for. If you like the idea of getting to know your patients, a job with higher levels of patient engagement could be the perfect speciality for you. Nurses fulfill a diverse array of crucial roles in the medical and caregiving professions. As you train for a career in nursing, dedicating time and consideration to your future path will assist you in choosing the specialty that best suits your aspirations. This includes not only understanding the different nursing roles but also the importance of appropriate attire, such as nursing scrubs, which are essential for both comfort and professionalism in various healthcare settings. To discover more about your options and to explore our extensive range of nursing supplies, including high-quality scrubs, please browse our collection or contact a member of our team today. 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.
August 22, 2022
Carolyn Cumper
Everything You Need to Know About Your White Coat Ceremony
The white coat ceremony is an important milestone in your professional career. Often seen as the real starting point of your medical journey, the ceremony can feel like the moment you go from being a member of the public, to a member of the healthcare community. If you’ve just started medical school and have been invited to a white coat ceremony for the first time, you might be asking what is the white coat ceremony? And wondering what to expect from the occasion. To help you navigate your way through this important event, we’re taking a look at everything you need to know about the ceremony. From white coat ceremony captions, dress codes and gifts, to traditions and oaths, we’re looking at all aspects of this medical rite of passage. What is a White Coat Ceremony? Although different institutions have different traditions, in general, white coat ceremonies involve the presentation of a gift (most commonly, a white lab coat) and the swearing of an oath. Most white coat ceremonies will take place in a university auditorium or hall, though some institutions might hire an outside space for the occasions. Medical students taking part in a white coat ceremony will swear the Hippocratic Oath. Other healthcare students may also swear oaths or make similar promises to do no harm and help their patients. In some cases, friends and family will be invited to watch a white coat ceremony. However, a lot of the time it’s just the students, their classmates and their professors at the event. What is White Coat Ceremony History? Though it may seem like an ancient tradition, the history of the white coat ceremony is actually fairly short. The first white coat ceremony was held in 1993 when a professor at Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons decided that students should take the Hippocratic Oath at the beginning of their studies rather than the end. The ceremony was created as an opportunity for students to swear the oath, thus placing patient care and medical ethics at the very heart of their medical studies. The tradition quickly spread and today white coat ceremonies are held in medical schools around the world, with thousands of budding healthcare professionals enjoying the event every year. In fact, the ceremony is so important that many schools hold theirs during orientation, right at the start of the academic year. Who Gets a White Coat Ceremony? Although the white coat ceremony is probably most closely associated with doctors, a lot of other budding medical professionals also go through this rite of passage. It’s common for universities and medical schools to host a pharmacist white coat ceremony, a nursing white coat ceremony and a physical therapy white coat ceremony alongside an event for aspiring doctors. During a white coat ceremony pharmacy students will also receive a lab coat and possibly other pieces of medical equipment. A pharmacy white coat ceremony probably won’t include an oath as, unlike medical students, those studying pharmacy don’t swear the Hippocratic Oath. White Coat Ceremony for Nurses The white coat ceremony nursing students enjoy will be broadly similar to that of doctors. They’ll be presented with a gift related to their profession (often a white coat, stethoscope or another piece of medical equipment) and will be reminded of the importance of placing patients at the heart of their medical practice. However, nurses won’t swear the Hippocratic Oath, instead, they’ll say related white coat ceremony quotes that reflect their commitment to do no harm and put patients first. White Coat Ceremony Gifts During a white coat ceremony, participants will generally be given a white lab coat by their university. After all, this is how the ceremony got its name. Some medical schools give students other items that are related to their profession, like a stethoscope, medical bag or scrubs. Pharmacy and nursing students may also receive something other than a white coat during their ceremony. Sometimes, friends and family of the students also give them gifts to help them along their way. If you know someone who’s just started at medical school and are looking for gifts for white coat ceremony to surprise them with, why not present them with a personalised white coat or another beautifully crafted piece of medical equipment? What to Wear to White Coat Ceremony? A lot of students want to know what to wear to a white coat ceremony. Very few would have been to one before, so it’s understandable they want to get their white coat ceremony outfit just right. In general, these events are fairly formal. Male doctors looking for white coat ceremony outfits might choose a suit, while female doctors often opt to wear evening dresses for white coat ceremony. White coat ceremony dresses are generally fairly smart. While doctors probably wouldn’t wear a gown or anything too glamorous, most would put on their best formal outfit for the occasion. If you’re still unsure about white coat ceremony dress, ask your medical school about their dress code. A white coat ceremony is an important milestone in every medical professional’s journey. Marking the start of your new career, it’s something you’ll remember for the rest of your life. So, if you’ve got a white coat ceremony coming up, or if you have a loved one who’s just starting out on their medical career, why not take a look at our collection of high quality supplies to find the perfect memento for the occasion? 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.
February 22, 2020
Medshop Editor
Pop Quiz — Study Better with Nursing Cards and Reference Guides
As any student will tell you, attending class is one thing, retaining the knowledge you need to pass a course is quite another. However, nursing reference cards can help!
April 03, 2018
Medshop Editor
Just in Time; We Found 9 Ideal Nursing School Graduation Gift Ideas For You
Here’s the good news: You still have time to find the perfect graduation gift for your favourite nursing school grad. Here’s the even better news: Medshop Australia’s team already did all the heavy lifting. We combed through our inventory to pull out the best graduation gift ideas, ranging from “that was thoughtful” to “wow, you really shouldn’t have.” For most nursing school graduates, at this moment they’re in a panic of questions about what they will do after graduation day… More schooling? Get a job? They’re wondering, how will I afford rent, my lifestyle, and the tools I need to practice my profession? That’s where you come in... As a loving friend, parent or family member, this is your chance to shine a ray of light into their lives. These are the gifts that, when received, will allow your graduate to cross one more item off their list. Quick note: Prices listed are not quotes, but references to the price at the time this blog was written. They are subject to change. Please see Medshop Australia’s current online pricing for the most up-to-date information. Lanyard Something simple many may not consider is the increasing security protocols at most institutions. Employers these days outfit their new recruits with a security card loaded for their access needs. Lose that card, and it’s a tough Monday at work. A lanyard solves most of those possibilities, but the standard issue lanyard is boring. The Prestige Deluxe Lanyard features butterfly or heart beading, with a breakaway safety clasp, and bulldog clip to accommodate almost every type of security card shape. For $21.33, this makes a fun, functional gift that will remind that graduate of you every day. Select your preferred Prestige Deluxe Lanyard style now. Pen “Have you got a pen?” has to rank in the top three questions asked in a hospital. Nurses can go through disposable pens like water, unable to keep track of them as they look like every other pen out there. Investing in a high-end desk pen isn't always the best idea either, considering those walk off too. The better pen is one that clips in place, like the Mini Clip Pen Set from Medshop Australia. This $1.50 package of pens comes with four different coloured pens, all outfitted with an easy clip that affixes to belt loops, keychains, waistbands and much more. It’s tough to lose, and easy to spot in a crowd. Plus, for that low price, you could outfit your graduate with a few sets just to be sure they have enough. Order your grad the Mini Clip Pen Set today. Anatomical Cube Book For the nurse going into paediatric care, this is the perfect desktop accessory. It’s also a fun gift for a graduate who appreciates interesting items. The Anatomical Human Body Cube Book isn’t like other anatomical charts. The compact design packs a ton of information about the human body in one place, in an interactive cube. Flip one side of the cube one way to reveal a new chart. Flip it another to reveal yet another system. Created by the crew at ZooBooKoo, the Human Body Cube is an entertaining as it is informative. The best part is, it’s only $12.07. Get the Body Cube Book for that low price now. Penlight Penlights are so popular, in February, we dedicated an entire blog to them. A nurse may grab for that penlight almost as many times as their pen, more than their stethoscope. For this reason, penlights can wear out or disappear even faster. Many nurses opt for low-cost options so they don’t have to shell out heaps of cash every month for new penlights. An alternative solution is to use a higher quality penlight, like the Welch Allyn Penlight. With its powder-coated, solid brass construction and bright halogen beam, this penlight will operate well beyond the normal life expectancy of most others. For graduates, it makes a possession they won’t anticipate, as the $63.50 price tag pushes down on their priorities list. They won’t frown at receiving it as a gift, though. It’s the little things like this which make starting that first day at a new job that much easier. Make the Welch Allyn Penlight the perfect graduation gift. Nursing Watch That pendulous timepiece worn by Australian nurses, the fob watch, comes with a history almost as venerable as the invention of the watch itself. Ironically, fob watches are one of the most common graduation gifts for new nurses. As such, many gift-givers go for economic, fun, silicon versions like Medshop’s silicone fob watch kit. That one comes with a reliable timepiece and five coloured silicone band options. At $25.45, these are in most folk’s budget for graduation gifts. But, if you really want to wow someone, consider the Classique Nursing Watch, a $94.88 timepiece as classic as the manufacturer’s name. Inside its stainless steel, waterproof housing, the cogs of Swiss movement power accurate time and date information. What’s more, it comes in three finishes, stainless steel, gold, and rose gold. Give the traditional graduation gift with a Classique Nursing Watch. Stethoscope Many grads start with a budget stethoscope, one that does the job but doesn’t offer much in the way of confidence. It’s likely that your grad already has a stethoscope of this calibre or one inherited from someone else to get through school. Going out into the professional world, however, mandates an upgrade. Like a Monte Blanc pen or Swiss-made watch, the stethoscope one carries sends a message to colleagues and clients or in this case, patients. For that reason, a Littmann Classic III makes a generous but lasting gift at $132.00. It also provides your graduate with a quality tool that can fill them with confidence for a lifetime as long as they maintain it. Stethoscope Case In order to keep that new stethoscope in top form for life, a case will go a long way towards protecting the components. The Medshop stethoscope protective case is a hot seller for that very reason. It comes in five different colour options and carries more than one type of stethoscope. The Littmann Cardiology III, Cardiology IV, and the Welch Allyn Harvey Elite all fit in this durable case, with room to spare for accessories. It zips closed, and features an easy grip rubber exterior and handle to ensure that stethoscope never hits the ground. This $16.50 case makes a nice standalone gift or an ideal insurance accessory for the generous gift-giver; as in one who already planned on gifting a stethoscope. Nurse’s Pouch Getting organized is the world’s great stress reliever. With everything in its place, one can push forward with confidence, ready to take what comes next. Nurses are no exception. A stylish pouch, like Australia’s Best Nursing Pouch, gives nurses easy access to their tools. It gets them organized. This one even drops straight into the washing tub when soiled, and comes out strong every time. Medshop Australia offers 15 different colour combinations. For $11.81, you could get them one for every day of the week. Clipboard They say one can go almost anywhere with a clipboard. Something about carrying one implies organization, power, and importance. The Prestige Nurse Assist Clipboard does all of that and a little more. The clip of the board provides an easy-access calculator and timer, endlessly handy throughout a nurse’s day. Also, hidden below the clip one finds a slew of diagnostic charts so the nurse who carries it doesn’t have to worry about being caught unprepared ever. It does all this for $36.80, less than the cost of many calculators. You now have nine reasons to show up to that graduation party, 10 if you count the likelihood that the host will serve cake and cold beer. That’s reason enough to go to any party. Considering the number of graduation parties coming up, you’ll want to stock up on the goodies above.
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