Healthy Snack Ideas for a Shift at the Hospital/Clinical:

We’ve all been there - you get home late from the hospital, you have to be back in 8 hours, and the last thing you want to do is prepare food for your next shift. The benefits of prepping snacks and healthy meals at home outweigh the negatives. 

Cost: Healthy food is available for purchase at hospital cafeterias is usually expensive - I know, because last week I spent $6.00 on a fruit cup. So, let’s say I buy a fruit cup four days a week - that totals $24.00, and in a month, I would be spending $96.00. Even though I’m making a healthy food choice, I would be able to prepare fruit cups at home for a month for a fraction of the cost. 

Access: It seems every second day, the break room is full of snacks and treats that staff or management have brought in to boost morale. As much as we all enjoy cookies, doughnuts, and all the good stuff - these items are not going to provide you enough brainpower to get through your shift; therefore, you may have a few more treats than planned if you’re feeling hungry. Bringing snacks from home allows you to fill up on nutritional food and have room for a small staff room treat before heading back on the floor!

Time: Your break is only so long, and I like to spend them sitting and resting my feet! If you don’t prep food at home, you’ll find yourself spending half of your break standing in line and not even having time to enjoy your meal before running back to the unit. Yes, it does take a little time to prepare snacks at home, but you don’t have to rush yourself, and when you get in the habit of doing it, it will become easier!

I’ve compiled a list of all my favorite clinical/work snacks that are easy to prepare and taste delicious! Most of these ideas can be pre-portioned on your days off; that way, you can quickly toss them in your lunch bag on the way out the door!

Most of these food items contain high carbohydrate or protein levels, giving you the energy and brainpower you need to have a great shift and be in a good mood! Because let’s be honest, no one wants a hangry nurse!

Happy Snacking!

Written by: Holly Peacock

Instagram: babynurseholly