What's in your first day survival kit as you begin your journey as a healthcare professional?

I would definitely carry a notepad to jot down important things to follow at the workplace, along with a small, quick reference book that I’ve made myself. This would boost my confidence in case I have any questions.

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As a dentist, I had to take my lab coat, a book and a pen,along with basics like a lunch box and a water bottle. On day one I tried to bring a new version of myself, filled with optimism.

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My first day of job will be full of excitement some nervousness and lots of patience. I will carry a pen, notepad, water bottle and some snacks.

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For my first day as a dentist, I carried my surgical mask, gloves, diagnostic instruments, a pen, notebook…. and of course a whole lot of enthusiasm :grinning_face_with_smiling_eyes::tooth:"

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As an qualified pharmacist i would definitely carry follow things

  1. A large bag to keep my personal and useful things

  2. Pen and a book to write important points during meetings or any other doubts i can clear further and to create any plan for my work

  3. Calculator may be needed if mobile is not allowed for my work

  4. Water bottle and lunch box to keep my self full to continue my work without starving

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For my first day, the important thing for me was a notepad and pen that can fit inside my pocket, and also some extra pens, if the professor required any. The second was the water bottle.

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I carry excitement, nervousness, notebook, pen and most importantly I’d card.

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First day as an intern,
This is so nostalgic,
My first posting as an intern was PSM posting in the rural sector
I remember crying,
why me🙃,
but I couldn’t change it

So, I carried my freshly washed and ironed Apron
A pen that my uncle gifted me and an extra (if needed)
Water bottle
Mask
And yeah a chocolate bar (for whenever I might feel anxious)
And yeah lots of flashcards about fever, cough, cold medications, OBGY essentials and doses in different age groups (if I forget)

I’m really looking forward to my first day as an Junior Resident.
Let’s see how that goes!

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A pen, excitement, alertness, slight fear and nervousness, name tag, water bottle (because hydration), handkerchief(to wipe off excess sweat from the jitters of first day) and few chocolates.

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Umm on my first day,I took a notebook a pen, lunch, waterbottle and a lot of courage because I was nervous and scared as I had came to south India so I was confused how the people will be will they talk to me or not I just kept overthinking but everything turned out to be good they weren’t like they show in movies

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It depends on student yes there are some genral and essential things you have to carry as a healthcare professional but it’s not necessary to carry things that makes to be pretension that you are a doctor

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Being confident and fearless was the moto of my first day of hospital training. I started observing and learnings new things. I also carried a small notebook and pen to note down about the things, I didn’t know about and basic requirements like water bottle, sanitizer and face wipes.

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In heath care we always keep learning new things and revising basic information. Carrying flashcards as an intern is a great idea to keep revising information. I hope you have a great first day as a junior resident too !

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The hospital has sanitizers but it’s a good idea to carry it sanitizers as well as face wipes as you may need them.

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I often remind myself of having some quiet moments to breathe and check in mentally. The very first day is usually full of newcomers and a flood of information. Mindfulness assists in adapting to an unfamiliar environment and remembering details.

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Starting my healthcare journey? Here’s what’s in my “first-day survival kit”:

  • A sturdy notebook and pen for nonstop note-taking

  • A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated through the day

  • Quick bite snacks like fruit or nuts for energy between sessions

  • Comfy shoes because hospital corridors are marathons in disguise

  • A deep breath and open mind because curiosity and kindness go a long way

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As a Doctor of Pharmacy student, my first-day checklist includes confidence, a learning mindset, basic drug references, a notebook, and professionalism. Being observant, patient-focused, and open to guidance matters most.

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Your first day checklist is a blend of tools, preparedness, and mindset because confidence comes not just from what you carry, but how ready you are to learn, adapt, and show up.

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A bottle of water, nuts and raisins, sanitizer and some basic first aid are absolute basics on the first day.

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As an intern, drink water and eat whenever you can free time is rare. Be confident, not cocky, and don’t let others shake your self belief. It’s okay to not know everything on day one you’ll learn with time.

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