20 Awesome Holiday and Christmas Gifts for Nurses
With the end of the year approaching, don’t leave holiday and Christmas gifts for nurses in your life to the last minute. Nurses work hard all year long so this is a great opportunity to thank them for their dedication, whether you’re a nurse manager or family member. But you don’t want to give them something that will just sit around. If you’re looking for holiday and Christmas gift ideas for nurses, check out our list below.
Gift Ideas for Staff
If you’re a nurse leader or nurse manager, you probably have a unit budget in mind as you research holiday gifts for nurses. The items below can be bought in bulk and are suited to most budgets.
1. Gift Cards
A universally appreciated option, gift cards let your staff treat themselves — whether it’s coffee, lunch, or a little online shopping. Bonus points if they are sent with an appreciative note.
2. Soaps
Practical and always useful, a high-quality soap is a luxury item with a small price tag, making it a great holiday or Christmas gift for a nurse.
3. Unit T-shirts
Custom shirts with your unit’s name or logo help build team pride. They’re fun, inexpensive, and add a sense of belonging to the unit.
4. Insulated Food Containers
Everyone has several thermoses lying around, but a nice insulated food container can help nurses plan their lunches ahead of time.
5. Hand Cream
With all the handwashing nurses do, a rich, fast-absorbing hand cream is a lifesaver. Choose gentle, fragrance-free options to keep it universally appealing.
6. Badge Reels
Practical and customizable, badge reels are something every nurse needs. You can pick neutral designs or fun, seasonal themes to add a little joy to the workday.
7. Pens
Nurses can never have too many pens. Good-quality, smooth-writing pens make charting a little easier and always get put to use.
8. Pen Light
A pen light is a staple tool for nursing assessments. Compact and affordable, it’s a gift that blends practicality with professionalism, and they’re even more convenient when attached to a badge reel.
9. Shower Steamers
Gift an at-home spa moment. Shower steamers offer stress relief, relaxation, and a touch of aromatherapy — perfect after long shifts.
10. Takeout
If staff are working on a holiday, covering their shift meals can help thank them for sacrificing their time with family. Plus, eating a meal together reinforces camaraderie and teamwork.
Holiday and Christmas Gifts for Nurses in Your Life
Looking for gifts to give to a nurse you love? The best Christmas gifts for nurses in your life are both practical and fun. See our top ideas.
11. Scrubs
Comfortable, stylish scrubs are always appreciated. Choose soft, durable brands in colors they love — something they can wear with pride on shift. Learn more about the best scrub brands.
12. Bogg Bag
These roomy, wipe-clean totes are perfect for hauling work gear, gym clothes, or sandy beach gear. Nurses love their durability and versatility.
13. Blue-Light-Blocking Glasses
Blue-light-blocking glasses help reduce eye strain and support healthier sleep patterns, so they’re great for nurses who chart late at night or unwind with screens after a shift.
14. Professional Organization Subscriptions
Memberships to groups like the ANA, AACN, or other organizations give nurses access to CEUs, journals, networking, and career development — a meaningful, career-boosting gift.
15. Personalized Jacket or Vest
A fleece or softshell embroidered with their name and credentials is both stylish and functional. Perfect for chilly units, quick errands, or adding a professional touch.
16. Sleep Mask
Ideal for night-shift nurses who need to sleep during the day. A soft, comfortable sleep mask helps block out light and supports better-quality rest.
17. Compression Socks
A nurses’ must-have for long days on their feet. Quality compression socks improve circulation and reduce fatigue — a thoughtful mix of comfort and practicality. Check out our top compression socks for nurses.
18. Stethoscope
A high-quality stethoscope is an investment in their practice. Great for new nurses, grads, or anyone due for an upgrade. Nurses use stethoscopes daily, so it’s best to get them one that will last. Learn more about what makes a great stethoscope.
19. eReader
For the nurse who unwinds with a good book, a quality eReader makes reading anywhere effortless. Lightweight, portable, and perfect for travel or post-shift relaxation.
20. Nurse Shoes
Supportive, cushioned shoes are essential for anyone walking miles each shift. A pair of high-quality nurse shoes shows you care about their comfort and well-being.
More Gifts for Nurses
For Christmas, Hanukkah, a birthday, or any day, a nice gift can help show your appreciation. Check out our other articles on what to get for nurses:
- 25 Best Gifts for Nurses in Your Life
- Getting the Right Nurses Week Gifts: Tips and Examples for 2026
- 7 Ideas for Healthcare Staff Appreciation Gifts
- 10 Best Nurse Retirement Gifts
Gift Yourself a New Role
Looking for holiday and Christmas gifts for nurses? One of the best gifts is a great job. Learn about opportunities for nursing professionals in your area with personalized job notifications.