Medical assistants take vitals, room patients, draw blood and keep the front and back of a clinic moving. They are on their feet most of the day, and they rarely get thanked for it. Practical comfort is the best place to start.
Feet and body
- Compression socks and cushioned insoles. Hard clinic floors add up.
- Comfortable work shoes, if you know their size and what they already like. Otherwise, let them choose.
- A heat pack or a foot massage tool for the end of the day.
Small things for the shift
- A good pen and a small notebook for notes and reminders.
- An insulated bottle or tumbler with a lid. It keeps a drink close between patients.
- Hand cream and lip balm. Frequent hand washing dries out skin.
- A sturdy lunch bag.
Please skip clinical gear such as stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs and scrubs unless they asked for a specific one. Fit and preference matter, and clinics often have their own standards.
After work
A gift card for a meal, a favorite coffee shop or groceries is easy and welcome. A thank-you note from a patient or family member means more than most people realize.
What to skip
- Medical puns and heartbeat-themed gifts.
- Another themed mug.
- Jokes about being tired or underpaid.
- Anything that needs space or care.
Browse more
Look through gift ideas for other jobs.