Nurse Emergency Kit: Ten Essentials for Overnight Hospital Stays

Nurse emergency readiness for a potential overnight stay at the hospital. 10 essentials every nurse needs.

Nurses are Essential Staff and when they work in 24hour hospital systems, we are expected to stay overnight if needed.

"Roads are closed. No one's leaving until morning."

Six hours into my shift, I was suddenly looking at 24+ hours at the hospital. No supplies. Dead phone. Vending machine dinner.

I swore I'd never be unprepared again.

Here's what I keep in my locker now and what has saved me during countless unexpected overnight stays.

Why You Need This

You might get stuck because of:

• ❄️ Winter storms

• 🚨 Staffing emergencies

• 🏥 Patient crises

• 🚗 Car trouble

• 😷 Pandemic protocols

  
  

The difference between misery and survival? This kit.

1. Compact Emergency Bag

Everything in one place. Fits in your locker.

2. Travel Toiletries Kit

   Must-haves:

   • Toothbrush + toothpaste

   • Dry shampoo

   • Face wipes

   • Deodorant

   • Body wipes

     
     

3. Portable Chargers

   Your phone is your lifeline. Don't let it die.

Pro tip: Keep an extra cable too.

4. Compact Blanket

   Break room cots are COLD.

   
   

5. Eye Mask and Ear Plugs

   Fluorescent lights. Pagers. People walking in and out.

   You need these.

   
   

6. Extra Scrubs

   Fresh scrubs after 24 hours = instant morale boost.

   Doesn't need to be the super expensive just fresh.

   
   

7. Protein Snacks

   The Caf will close - Vending machines may run out - Make sure you pack snacks.

   
   

8. Insulated Water Bottle

   Hydration = Non-negotiable

   
   

9. Travel Pillow

   Your Neck will thank you.

10. Entertainment & Sanity

    
    

Ideas:

• Book/Kindle

• Journal + pen

• Card games

• Headphones (linked)

• Stress ball

Check your locker. Keep it stocked. Stay Ready !

Nurse Megs