10 Great Medical Scissors
Is it time to upgrade or get a new pair of medical scissors? Or maybe you’re looking for a gift for a nurse in your life. These tools are essential for removing clothes in emergencies, taking apart wound dressings, and cutting through thick materials like plaster casts. And if you use them regularly, investing in a nice pair of nursing scissors can make your shift just a little easier.
If you’re in the market for a new pair, learning about the different types of medical scissors can help you make the right choice. These are the most commonly used scissors in nursing:
- Bandage scissors are used for cutting gauze, medical tape, and bandages, and they commonly have an angled, blunted tip to make cutting against skin safer. These are the most common scissors for non-emergent procedures like dressing changes, and are valuable in a range of acute care situations.
- Medical shears, also called trauma shears, are typically larger and used in emergencies, commonly to cut off clothes. They typically have a bigger handle, and they can be slightly serrated to cut through thick fabrics. If you work in emergency medicine, these are a must.
- Stitch scissors are smaller and used for delicate suture removal. Their handles are more narrow, and their tips are pointed for precise cuts. These are a great choice if you tend to work with wounds or assist with minor surgeries.
It’s also important to consider the construction of a new pair of scissors. Titanium or stainless steel scissors are known for lasting the longest, and are easier to clean and more durable than plastic or cheaper metals. And if you’re going to be carrying your scissors around with you through your shift, it’s probably a good idea to choose a pair with blunt edges or other safety features.
10 Great Medical Scissors for Nurses
- DDP Titanium Rainbow Stitch Scissors
- Hummingbird 4-in-1 Scissors
- Leatherman Raptor Rescue Scissors
- Lister Bandage Scissors
- Madison Supply Scissors
- MEUUT 2 Pack Scissors
- Prestige Medical Nurse Utility Scissor
- Spencer Stitch Scissors
- Surgical Online Medical Bandage Combo Pack
- Zoinada Trauma Shears
*Pricing was accurate at the time of publication.
1. DDP Titanium Rainbow Stitch Scissors
Looking for stitch scissors that stand out from the rest? These rainbow scissors are made with stainless steel, and their hooked end makes cutting sutures easier. At under $10, their price is hard to beat.
Price: $8
2. Hummingbird 4-in-1 Scissors
These compact shears feature Japanese stainless steel blades for cutting bandages and clothes. They also have a blunt flathead screwdriver on the end, a built-in oxygen key, and an IV clamp for getting out line kinks. They come in 10 colors, so you can get a pair that stands apart.
Price: $15–$30
3. Leatherman Raptor Rescue Scissors
If you work in emergency or rescue medicine, these trauma shears are some of the best you can get. Not only are they great for cutting through clothes, but they have a carbide glass breaker, as well as a strap and ring cutter for emergencies. Their heavy-duty design comes with a 25-year warranty, and they’re made in the U.S.
Price: $100
4. Lister Bandage Scissors
These standard yet high-quality bandage scissors are made with German stainless steel, and have an off-set blade design that makes it easy to cut at an angle. Plus, they come in eight variations so you can get the size that’s right for your hand.
Price: $32–$96
5. Madison Supply Scissors
If you’re looking for a pair of durable scissors with an affordable price tag, these fluoride-coated shears could be your best option. Their serrated blades can cut through bandages and fabric with ease, and they even have a built-in wirecutter behind the blade.
Price: $10
6. MEUUT 2 Pack Scissors
These comfortable shears have a grippy plastic handle that makes them easier to hold on to, and their stainless steel blade will stay sharp shift after shift. They also feature an oxygen key and an ambidextrous handle, so you can use whichever hand is free.
Price: $8 for two
7. Prestige Medical Nurse Utility Scissor
Looking for a basic option with a little pizzazz? These budget-friendly shears come in 11 colors, including a rainbow finish. They’re made with surgical-grade stainless steel, so you can depend on them.
Price: $8
8. Spencer Stitch Scissors
If you tend to cut a lot of sutures, these basic stitch scissors can make your life easier. Their flat design has a small hook on the handle, so you can get under close stitches without nicking your patient. And their German stainless steel craftsmanship makes them a great investment in your practice.
Price: $40
9. Surgical Online Medical Bandage Combo Pack
Not sure which type of scissors you need? This combo pack comes with bandage scissors, trauma shears, and a hemostat clamp, so you’ll have all your bases covered. Each piece is made with stainless steel, and all at a price that’s hard to beat.
Price: $8.50
10. Zoinada Trauma Shears
Do your scissors tend to wander off during your shift? These shears have built-in carabiners so you can attach them to your pocket or belt loop. And since they come as a two-pack, you’ve even got a backup on hand to loan out (or keep for yourself).
Price: $7 for two
Cut to a Great New Job
While you’re upgrading your medical scissors, why not check out ways to upgrade your nursing role? IntelyCare has options in most specialties and areas. Sign up for personalized nursing job alerts to learn more.