11 Best Ways to Thank a Nurse!

Nurses have always been our everyday heroes, and especially now during COVID they are in the spotlight for their hard work, sacrifice and incredible dedication. They work selflessly to help others, sometimes even putting themselves at risk or having to separate themselves from their families while they courageously treat patients. No matter if they are working in a hospital, doctor’s office, private home health care, or any other setting, nurses are front line workers and fight courageously for the well being and health of the American people. Now more than every it is important to show the nurses in our lives gratitude and appreciation!

Practicing social distancing means that we should not throw a big party for nurses, or give hugs, or a gift certificate to a masseuse. In fact, it is helpful for nurses when we wear masks in public and follow safety precautions because it helps keep them safe too! Even though this year is different, there are still many creative ways to thank a nurse!

1. A kind, handwritten note expressing your thanks. 
2. Chocolate – giving the nurse in your life gourmet chocolates is a sweet way to say thank you
3. Compression socks – these socks can soothe aches and prevent swelling during those long shifts!
4. Sending a sincere thank you text, email or leaving a voicemail telling them how much you appreciate the incredible work they do and how proud you are of them. Calls are great too, they just may not be able to pick up during their busy days!
5. Healthy snacks – snacks like granola or energy bars, dried fruit, nuts, dried chickpeas, pretzels, and instant oatmeal are great to give to a nurse because they can be eaten on the go!
6. Caffeine – nurses work long and busy shifts, and caffeine helps them to stay energized. A gift card for their favorite coffee place, a high quality travel mug or bag of quality coffee or tea should do the trick!
7. Flowers – everyone loves getting flowers! You can opt for flower delivery and include a sweet note as well!
8. Yardwork – Nurses are on their feet for long periods of time, and surprising them by helping with labor intensive yardwork will be very appreciated!
9. Small gift – nurses can never have enough pens, and a quality pen or set of pens will go to good use. Nice hand cream is also great, nurses’ hands become dry and cracked due to frequent handwashing and wearing gloves! 
10. Meals – donating pizza or a delivery meal to a nursing unit at a hospital or healthcare center is a great gesture to show your appreciation for our nurses!
11. Public Thank You – Put up a sign on your front lawn or window thanking nurses! You can also show public support with bumper sticks, tshirts, bracelets, and more!