Strapping tape and Opsite (or whatever your hospital uses to secure drips).
High-energy snacks (like fruit & nut packs, energy bars, etc.).
Try and keep your water bottle close by.
Keep an extra set of scrubs in your car, in case you get some undesired body fluid all over you.
You will need the EML guidelines app for drug dosing and first-line management in most cases.
NEVER PUT YOUR PHONE ON SILENT!
Take your cell phone charger and a two-point plug with (and a power bank if you have one). Make sure you don’t get stuck with a flat phone!!
Consciously drink enough water.
If you get a chance to eat, rest, or make coffee – take it!
On-call sleep can range from 0-5 hours, depending on the department and the day. Go in expecting to get no sleep, then your 30min nap will feel like gold.
Call rooms tend to have bed bugs and mosquitoes.
Take insect repellent and a sleeping bag with.
If you are unsure about anything, rather ask! Everyone remembers what it was like to face your first call. You can do it!
Start your morning rounds earlier rather than later. The sooner you finish your duties, the sooner you can go home.
Finally, welcome to the wonder of post-call euphoria! The world is your oyster, yes…but take it from those who have fallen into these traps before…
Don’t drive long distances (you might think you’re fine, but you really are risking your life).
Don’t go shopping!
And most of all, if you have any concern for your future financial welfare, stay FAR away from post-call online shopping!!!