Different Tools Needed for Nursing Assistants

A nursing assistant uses a variety of tools for her day-to-day duties. If you are planning to train to become a nursing assistant, the instructor or professor may require you to provide your own tools. Some educational facilities provide students with the necessary tools to complete the nursing assistant training. Check with your educational facility for any additional tools that you may need to complete the course.

Stethoscope

• Nursing assistants commonly use a stethoscope to check a patient's blood pressure and vital signs. In most cases, a low-cost stethoscope is adequate for a nursing assistant but those nurses who perform duties in respiratory or cardiac specialties may require a more sensitive, high-quality stethoscope.

Watch

• A watch is an essential tool for nursing assistants. The watch must contain a second hand to calculate pulse and other patient vitals. Some medical facilities prohibit the use of a watch containing cloth bands because the band may become contaminated. It is wise to purchase a watch that is waterproof, for a nursing assistant washes her hands often.

Uniforms

• A nursing assistant's uniform typically consists of scrubs and comfortable shoes. Scrubs are specifically designed clothes for medical professionals. The colors and styles of a nursing assistant's uniform vary by work setting. Many medical facilities require nurses to wear white tennis shoes, for comfort and cleanliness.

Additional Tools

• Depending on the facility, a nursing assistant may need other items to properly perform her duties. These items include a blood pressure cuff (sphygmomanometer), penlight, colored pens, bandage scissors, and a gait belt. A nursing assistant uses a penlight to check a patient's pupils and a gait belt to help patients to walk to the restroom or during physical therapy.