The holidays are a busy time of the year, especially for nurses. The winter is a common time for people to get sick, so offices and hospitals are teeming with patients. And with so many people on vacation around the holidays, offices are packed with appointments! Nurses and employees in the healthcare industry are often required to work during the holidays to help meet patient demand. Even though your staff has to work, you can make their holidays bright with a few gifts and gestures of appreciation.

Stock the break room with festive food and snacks. You could host a staff potluck that is available throughout the shift, so employees can grab a bite when they are on break. Or make a batch of bite sized candies and cookies and package them in clear bags. Present to your staff at the end of a busy day during the holiday season to thank them for their dedication.

Remember, it’s the little things that count. Even if you can’t afford to do a lot, a small gesture can mean a lot to your staff. Give all the nurses on your team a new Nurses Rock badge reel to use at work. Present the badge reel with a personal holiday greeting card, and your team will feel a little extra boost of appreciation.

Decorate your workspace to get in the spirit. Put up a few decorations in your area to make the workplace a little warmer and friendlier during the holidays. Wrap bulletin boards in wrapping paper and decorate windows with gel clings.

Give gifts that are practical for their job. After talking with two of my friends who are hospital nurses, I’ve learned a lot about their different schedule sand responsibilities. They appreciate gifts that fit into their hectic work lives and can be used to make life a little easier. Tote bags, travel mugs, and water bottles are used by nurses on a daily basis, so they make excellent holiday gifts. Add a personal note or sweet treat (I hear chocolate is always a big hit) to make the gift truly special.

What are your favorite gifts to give to nurses or receive? Let us know here!

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Cori is Baudville's in-house Recognitionista (she's officially a Certified Recognition Professional, too)  and a member of the Millennial generation. Get her employee recognition tips and special discounts by liking Baudville on Facebook.