What to Buy Gift Guides The 47 Best Gifts for Healthcare Workers From meal subscriptions to comfy kicks, these gifts will make their lives easier on and off shift By Hannah Harper Hannah Harper Instagram Hannah Harper is the associate editor for Health.com. Previously, she was an assistant editor and prior to that, editorial assistant for Health Magazine. health's editorial guidelines Updated on November 10, 2022 Share Tweet Pin Email We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Amazon Health care workers should always be at the top of the nice list for their devotion to helping others—and the last few years have certainly put into perspective just how essential nurses, doctors, aids, and lab technicians really are. That's why it's more important than ever to give thanks to the health care workers in our lives with thoughtful (and useful) gifts that show our appreciation. Of course, we know giving the perfect present is better said than done. From weighted blankets and heated neck massagers that will help them relax after a grueling shift to accessories to help personalize and store the tools they use every day, these are the gifts they might not think to buy for themselves. Instead of spending hours searching for a considerate pick, scroll through our list of gifts for health care workers to find something they'll actually want to unwrap this holiday season. Resteck Neck and Back Massager 4.6 Amazon View On Amazon Nothing soothes exhausted muscles quite like a deep-tissue massage—and this heated shiatsu massager is the next best thing to an in-person appointment. Its hands-free design hangs over the shoulders and delivers a relaxing treatment through 8 heated massage nodes, so it can be worn while watching Netflix or scrolling through IG after a long shift. Price at time of publication: $65 Roborock S4 Max Robot Vacuum with Lidar Navigation Amazon View On Amazon The last thing anyone wants to do after a long workday is clean, especially when it's a 12-hour shift. This robot vacuum knocks one chore off the list by sucking up dirt, dust, and pet hair on both carpet and hardwood floors. Its smart design even connects to an app through Wi-Fi, so it's possible to control the schedule and suction power on a smartphone, as well as drawing no-vacuum zones and advance cleaning areas for bigger messes. Price at time of publication: $300 ButterFox Stethoscope Carry Case Amazon View On Amazon This sleek case gives health care workers a convenient way to store their stethoscope throughout the day. Available in 12 colorways, its interior is lined with a soft microfiber to pad against falls with two mesh pockets to maximize storage for additional instruments. It's the perfect thoughtful, yet budget-friendly option. Price at time of publication: $15 Purple The Purple Pillow View On Purple Long hours are the name of the game for health care workers, so when it's time to snooze they need all the help they can get. This science-backed pillow delivers just the right amount of support and comfort for maximizing Zzzs. Bonus point: The cooling pick has also been the solution for hundreds of shoppers with neck pain. Price at time of publication: $134 Apple Series 3 GPS Watch Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart A smartwatch is an easy way for doctors or nurses to stay connected to the outside world during a busy shift without needing to constantly check their phones. With a waterproof design, optical heart sensor, and built-in GPS, the Apple Watch Series 3 is the perfect pick. Price at time of publication: $220 Hungryroot Hungryroot View On Hungryroot.com Keep their fridge stocked with healthy ingredients that can be prepared into a nutritious meal in 15 minutes or less with Hungryroot's meal service. It drops a delivery of plant-based products right to their doorstep with recipes to create delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Not to mention, it includes add-on options for snacks and desserts that'll satisfy mid- or post-shift cravings. Price at time of publication: Starting at $65 per delivery Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Water Bottle 4.8 Amazon View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Nordstrom Whether it's struggling to keep water ice-cold or coffee piping hot during a busy workday, this Hydro Flask will be the perfect solution. The double-walled stainless steel bottle is a fan favorite between its no-slip finish, wide-mouth design, and color options. Price at time of publication: $48 Winc Monthly Wine Club Zola View On Winc.com View On Zola A Winc delivery brings a curated selection of 4 wine bottles right to their front door for a night of guaranteed relaxation. A one-month subscription allows them to input their personal tastes and preferences for a box that suits their taste buds—and your wallet. Price at time of publication: Starting at $60 per month L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream 5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Sephora View On Loccitane.com Hand cream offers much-need relief from the dry, cracked skin that comes with constant washing. This nurse-approved pick is packed with ingredients like shea butter, vitamin E, and coconut oil that both restore moisture and protect against future damage. Price at time of publication: $30 Instant Pot Duo Nova 6-Quart 7-in-1 4.6 Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Best Buy View On Jcpenney.com The Instant Pot lets users speed up the cooking process with pressure settings or slowly it way down with the slow cooker function. Either way, it promises a low-maintenance meal for up to 6 people. Not to mention, it's also a rice cooker, yogurt maker, and steamer to help reduce the number of pots and pans needing washing. Price at time of publication: $70 Bloomscape Tough Stuff Collection Bloomscape View On Bloomscape.com Health care workers won't be around enough to appreciate a beautiful bouquet, so a plant is the ideal alternative. This trio set includes a variety of durable options that require minimal care, like a ZZ Plant. Shipped in matching pots and ready for low-light areas, they're the perfect gift right out of the box. Price at time of publication: $105 Nurse Coloring Book: Sweary Midnight Edition Amazon View On Amazon A guaranteed laugh for the overworked nurse in your life, this R-rated coloring book is filled with snarky sayings. As the name suggests, it features a lot of F-bombs and other curse words, but for many content buyers that's most of the fun. Price at time of publication: $9 BGment Blackout Curtains for Bedroom - Thermal Insulated Amazon View On Amazon Night shift workers will be overjoyed to receive these insulated curtains. Not only will they snooze better with less light, but they'll also save on electricity with the thermo-regulating design. Plus, they come in 24 different colors to match a range of decor. Price at time of publication: $26 Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks Comrad View On Amazon Compression socks counteract the swelling caused by poor circulation after a long shift—but most are pretty darn uncomfortable. Comrad decided to fix that by creating a sock that's equal parts compression and comfort. It also has a cushioned footbed, contoured design, and silver-infused technology to prevent odors. Opt for the knee-high pick for extra compression (and better protection during spills). Price at time of publication: $28 Vionic Aimmy Active Sneaker Vionic View On Amazon Workers in the medical field spend most of their shifts on their feet, which makes pair of comfy shoes extra important. Reviewers say these shoes provide plenty of support but are still lightweight. Plus, they have built-in orthotics designed by a podiatrist. Price at time of publication: Starting at $80 Casper Weighted Blanket 4.8 Bed Bath & Beyond View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Casper A weighted blanket can help users fall asleep faster and sleep better, making it a great gift for anyone behind on sleep. Casper's luxurious design is constructed for airflow and comfort with a chic design bound to look good on any bedspread. Shop the blanket in 10-, 15-, and 20-pound weights. Price at time of publication: $169 NutriBullet Pro 900 Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Belk.com This high-speed blender makes a nutrient-packed smoothie in under 60 seconds for the perfect portable single portion breakfast. Its design is so simple, you won't have to be a doctor to use it (well, they might be). Simply twist on the 32-ounce cup filled with greens, fruits, and liquid and let the blending begin. Price at time of publication: $100 Herbivore Botanicals Calm Bath Salts 4.7 Amazon View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Dermstore Sometimes the best way to end a stressful day is with a hot bath. These calming bath salts contain natural oils like vanilla and ylang ylang to help you relax and unwind, as well as Himalayan sea salt to exfoliate the skin. Price at time of publication: $20 Meatanty USB Mouse Jiggler Amazon View On Amazon A healthcare worker’s job can be incredibly stressful and exhausting, so minimizing small frustrations can be a huge help. This mouse jiggler continuously moves a mouse while the computer is being idle so that workers can easily access their computer without having to log in everytime. Price at time of publication: $17 Invo Spa Shiatsu Foot Massager Amazon View On Amazon At the end of a long day, relax aching feet with a much-needed massage. This foot massager uses heat to increase muscle tension relief and promote blood circulation. Price at time of publication: $100 Vivitest Ceramic Stone Essential Oil Diffuser Amazon View On Amazon Create an environment to relax after a long day of work with this ceramic essential oil diffuser. Add a few drops of your favorite calming essential oil to the diffuser to fill the room with soothing aromas. Price at time of publication: $43 Hi Clasmix Graduated Medical Compression Socks 4.7 Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Standing for long periods may lead to swollen legs. Compression socks have been shown to reduce this type of swelling. These medical-grade socks come in a variety of fun patterns and colors. Price at time of publication: $19 Crocs Unisex Adult Classic Clogs 4.2 Crocs View On Zappos View On Academy.com View On Crocs.com Designed for comfort, Crocs make it easier for the healthcare worker in your life to be on their feet all day. The shoes are also durable and easy to clean—ideal for a hospital environment. Price at time of publication: Starting at $28 Dagacci Medical Uniform Top and Pants Scrubs Set 4.8 Amazon View On Amazon Scrubs are an essential must-have for healthcare workers. Brighten a healthcare worker’s day with a new pair to add to their collection. This brand offers a variety of colors to choose from. Price at time of publication: $23 Allurec Luxury Silk Sleep Mask Amazon View On Amazon Unwinding at the end of a shift can be challenging. This hypoallergenic luxury silk sleep mask feels calm and soothing against the skin for an easier time falling asleep. Plus, for those who work night shifts, a sleep mask can help to block out light while you get shut-eye during daytime hours. Price at time of publication: $29 Five Elements 1,000 Thread Count Sheets Amazon View On Amazon Getting a good night’s rest is essential for staying alert throughout a full shift, and a relaxing sleep space can help you get that quality rest. These high thread count Egyptian cotton bed sheets add a luxurious touch to any sleep environment. Price at time of publication: $90 SuzziPad Microwavable Heating Pads 4.5 Amazon View On Amazon This microwavable heating pad can be used to help relieve cramps, muscle aches, and neck and shoulder pain. The plush fabric and flexible form allows the pad to be used exactly where needed. Price at time of publication: $25 Nature Made Wellblends Stress Relief Gummies Target View On Target This stress-relief supplement combines L-theanine and GABA, both of which are thought to help reduce stress and support a calm and relaxed mental state. Take the gummy after a long day to help you unwind. Price at time of publication: $13 Soleebee 24'' Retractable Badge Reel Amazon View On Amazon These ID badge holders have a 360-degree swivel, making it easy to scan in and out. The swivel alligator clip also allows for your badge to stay straight no matter the angle you wear it. The pack comes with 12 different colored holders in vibrant and easy-to-match colors. Price at time of publication: $14 Columbia Women's Benton Springs Fleece Jacket Amazon View On Amazon View On Apparelnbags.com Hospitals are often kept on the cooler side. This fleece zip-up jacket will keep you warm and comfortable throughout your shift. Plus, it’s easily machine washable. Price at time of publication: Starting at $35 Slow North Therapy Pack Neck Wrap Slow North Therapy View On Slownorth.com After a long day of caring for others, this neck wrap can help you take a moment to yourself to relax. The pack can be used warm or cold to soothe tension or aches, depending on your preference. Price at time of publication: $49 Porter Lunch Box W&P View On Wandp.com This bento-inspired lunch box has three separate compartments to bring a selection of sandwiches, salads, veggies, and more all in one container. The lightweight container is microwave and dishwasher safe, and comes in three stylish colors. Price at time of publication: $25 Fellow Carter Move Mug + Slide-Lock Lid Fellow View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Fellowproducts.com This travel mug has a unique slide-lock lid that allows you to quickly slide open the lid with your thumb and then slide it back into place to lock in heat (or cold) for up to six hours. This design is perfect for a busy healthcare worker on the go. Price at time of publication: $30 Burt’s Bees Naturally Clean Hand Cream Burtâs Bees View On Burtsbees.com Healthcare workers are washing and sanitizing their hands throughout the day, which can lead to dry, irritated, and cracked skin. This hand cream is infused with shea butter and baobab oil to keep your hands moisturized throughout the day and to nourish and soften skin over time. Price at time of publication: $5 Damero Utility Tote and Nurse Bag Amazon View On Amazon For travel nurses or healthcare workers that do home visits, a sturdy tote can be a huge help in securely transporting their equipment. This structured utility bag has a variety of pockets inside and out for medical supplies and accessories. Price at time of publication: $39 MIAODAM Adjustable Mask Extender Strap Amazon View On Amazon A mask extender connects the straps of the mask behind your head, keeping the strain off of your ears and preventing irritation. This one has multiple rungs, so the mask can be adjusted for a more custom fit. Price at time of publication: $8 EltaMD Skin Recovery Night Mask Amazon View On Amazon View On Dermstore View On Beautifiedyou.com Working long hours while wearing a mask can dry and irritate your skin. This thick overnight cream will help hydrate and restore your skin while you sleep. Price at time of publication: $50 Etsy Stethoscope ID Tag Etsy View On Etsy This hand-stamped metal ring slips onto a stethoscope for a bit of personalization. Customize the piece with your chosen type of metal, name, and design. Price at time of publication: $9 Samsung Qi Wireless Charger and UV Sanitizer Courtesy by Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Quzo.net Healthcare workers are exposed to plenty of germs, which means their phone likely is, too. This wireless charging box charges your phone while also using UV-light to sanitize your device in about 10 minutes. Price at time of publication: $18 Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier Electrolyte Drink Mix Amazon Buy on Amazon Buy on Liquid-iv.com During a busy shift of taking care of others, it can be hard to fill your own basic needs, like drinking enough water. These electrolyte packs will help keep you hydrated, even when you only have time for a quick sip. Price at time of publication: $24 Origins Pamper Perfect Hydrating Body Cream Trio Origins View On Origins.com Having a moment of self-care after a long shift is essential to keeping calm and staying energized. This lotion trio gives you a moment to pamper yourself. Price at time of publication: $36 Girlfriend Collective 50/50 Classic Jogger Girlfriend Collective View On Girlfriend.com These sweatpants are made with recycled and organic cotton, as well as eco-friendly dyes. The super-soft joggers will be the only thing a healthcare worker wants to wear on their off-days. Price at time of publication: $78 Grove Co. Sanctuary Soy Candle with Lavender, Blue Sage and Clove Grove View On Grove.co A calming candle can help set the tone to unwind after a long day. This one is made in the US with a soy-based wax and scented with lavender and sage for total relaxation. Price at time of publication: $28 Gowa Design Ring Holder Necklace Etsy View On Etsy Rings can cut through gloves or get in the way of hands-on work. This necklace allows you to easily slip a ring onto the chain, where it will stay securely throughout the day. Price at time of publication: $25 Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Best Buy Getting coffee fast in the morning is a must for many healthcare workers. This Keurig K-Mini brews a fresh cup in minutes. And the coffee maker is small enough to fit pretty much anywhere. Price at time of publication: $78 PROHAPI Hard Stethoscope Case Amazon View On Amazon This stethoscope carrying case has an insulation layer and shock-proof inner layer to protect your tools even when dropped. The case is roomy enough to carry a few extra essentials along with your stethoscope. Price at time of publication: $25 She’s Birdie Safety Alarm Nordstrom View On Amazon View On Shesbirdie.com Walking back to your car at the end of a late shift can be nerve-wracking. This personal safety alarm has a loud alarm and flashing strobe light when triggered to deter an attack. The device easily clips onto a bag or keychain. Price at time of publication: $30 Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit Sources Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Guedes PM, Saldanha NA, Matos PM, Carvalho FS, Veiga G, Norton P. Occupational leg edema—use of compression stockings. Porto Biomed J. 2020;5(6):e093. doi:10.1097/j.pbj.0000000000000093 Hepsomali P, Groeger JA, Nishihira J, Scholey A. Effects of oral gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) administration on stress and sleep in humans: a systematic review. Front Neurosci. 2020;14:923. doi:10.3389/fnins.2020.00923 Hidese S, Ogawa S, Ota M, et al. Effects of l-theanine administration on stress-related symptoms and cognitive functions in healthy adults: a randomized controlled trial. Nutrients. 2019;11(10),:2362. doi:10.3390/nu11102362