Finishing medical school is an incredible achievement. Students who can withstand the pressure and make it through the grueling exams deserve all the praise and accolades they receive – and then some!
If you know a recent or soon-to-be med school grad and want to show them you’re proud, check out the list below of our top 10 gifts for med school grads – or should we say doctors?
Great coffee or espresso machine
Early days, late nights, long hours – that’s the name of the game for new doctors, which for many means a regular caffeine intake. To help ensure they don’t blow their income on daily Starbucks trips, consider purchasing them a great coffee maker, espresso machine, or even an on-the-go portable gadget to ensure they have the energy they need to be medical superheroes. We love the Nespresso for lightning fast service, the Breville Express for a barista style beverage, and the very cool Nanopresso for espresso anywhere, anytime.
Nodpod
Good sleep is crucial for anyone in the medical profession – as poor sleep has been shown to affect doctors’ ability to care for patients. The NodPod weighted sleep mask is making waves due to its claims that it promotes better sleep and lessens anxiety by blocking out light and applying gentle pressure to pressure points on the face.
Comfortable scrubs
The best scrubs are lightweight, comfortable, breathable, and easy to care for – but buying multiple pairs of this essential medical uniform can make a dent in a new doctor’s budget. Help them out by picking up a pair (or two!) for them in their favorite colors… we’re sure they’ll thank you!
Compression socks
Doctors can be on their feet upwards of 12 hours a day, which can lead to leg and foot pain, swelling, and varicose veins. Compression socks work by assisting blood flow and circulation, easing swelling, and preventing tissue damage. More comfort can mean more energy for a busy doctor – and energy is something they need in high doses!
Grab a pair of comfortable, practical compression socks for doctors right here.
Luxury hand-poured candle (that’ll give them a laugh)
Not all gifts have to be practical, and this line of silly, delicious-smelling candles can be a great way to put a smile on the face of someone who works hard day in and day out! At the end of the day, they can light a candle that says “Please don’t confuse your Google search with my medical degree” or “it’s doctor, actually” and enjoy the aromatherapy benefits of scents like jasmine, bergamot, or amber and cedar.
Cloud slides
Once they pull their compression socks off for the day, it’s time for a new doctor to treat their feet – and these cloud slides are a hit with thousands of five-star reviewers who call them “heaven on my feet.”
Deep tissue massage gun
Whether they’re in the ER, the OR, or the family medical office, a new doctor will likely suffer from muscle tension from the combination of mental, physical, and emotional stress. Deep tissue percussive massage has been shown to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and increase mobility and flexibility, which can help them relax and recuperate so they’re better ready to save lives.
Try the mini Theragun, or the larger sized, budget-friendly massage gun from Sharper Image.
Yeti mug or water bottle
Whether they’re toting around hot coffee, an iced tea, or good ol’ H20, everyone loves their beverages to stay at their preferred temperatures, no matter how long their shift is. Yeti is the gold standard for insulated stainless steel products that stand the test of time.
Depending on the new doc’s drink of choice, try the Rambler mug, water bottle, or stackable cup with straw lid.
Samsung Galaxy Watch, Apple Watch, or Speidel scrubs watch
Smart watches have come a long way, with newer editions monitoring heart rate, blood oxygen, sleep, menstrual cycles, and even road safety. For the tech savvy med school grad, a smart watch could be the ultimate gift that keeps on giving.
If the new doctor you’re shopping for is more old school, they may prefer the classic look and features of the Speidel Original Scrub Watch, which comes in a variety of scrub-matching colors and medical profession-friendly 3-second quartz movement which allows for accuracy in pulse readings.
Healthcare affirmation cards
Doctors and other essential healthcare workers see a lot – from injuries to heartbreak and shocking violence, which can contribute to mental health struggles. These healthcare affirmation cards are one small way you can show the medical school graduate in your life that you want them to practice emotional and mental self-care. Featuring affirmations like “this is hard and I am doing it,” “I will show kindness and empathy to my patients” and “I will honor my limitations,” doctors are reminded of their power, responsibility, and vulnerability.
There are few accomplishments more impressive than graduating medical school and entering the workforce dedicated to the care of the sick, injured, and suffering. If you know a student that has recently graduated or is about to cross the stage, show them you are proud to call them Doctor with a thoughtful gift from our list of great gifts for med school grads – and tell them congratulations from us!
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