Home Office Essentials for Remote Nurses

Must-have home office essentials (Amazon Picks)

For the nurse who just wants to go directly to the source…everything below is linked in the Amazon storefront here so you can find everything quickly in one place!

Ergonomic Office Must-Haves

Ergonomic Chair – This is an essential, just like your desk. Make sure to check the return policy, especially when ordering online, because something might look great but not feel right after a week of use. You’ll want something functional and supportive, and sometimes the only way to know is to try it first.

Standard or Standing Desk – Very popular among nurses, especially since we’re used to being on our feet! These give you the option to switch positions throughout the day or even walk while you work if you use a desk treadmill. I’ve used both a regular desk and a standing desk and found that either would work for me, so it really is a personal preference. The main things to consider is the size of the desk, your available office space, and the amount of equipment the desk will need to hold!

Desk Treadmill – Personal preference for getting one of these but a nice add-on if you’re good at multi-tasking. Great way to get steps in while staying productive at work.

Cord Organizers & Power Strips – Seriously underrated. If you’re using multiple monitors or a docking station, these help prevent cord chaos and make your space feel more put-together.

Laptop Riser – One of my top must-haves. Your laptop will get hot, sometimes dangerously so (yes, they can overheat and yes, they can burst, don’t ask me how I know lol). Many companies provide one, but if not, I definitely recommend getting your own. Bonus: it also helps reduce neck strain. Depending on your desk type, a monitor riser could be useful also.

Footrest or Chair Pillow – Small adjustments like this can make a big difference in how your body feels by the end of a documentation-heavy day.. Look for lumbar support and adjustable height.

Tech & Tools for Remote Nurses

Headphones + Microphone Combo – Especially important for triage, prior auth, or case management roles. I used the BlueParrott headset. It’s amazing at noise canceling, and no one hears a thing in the background, even with dogs barking! It’s super clear but does fit a bit snug, so it may not be the best fit for everyone.

Webcam Cover – A sticky note works, too, but a webcam cover is cleaner and more reliable. Especially nice if you’re using a company-issued laptop.

Mouse and Keyboard – If you’re allowed to use your own, go with ergonomic and Bluetooth options. If not, you can always ask if alternative equipment can be provided.

iPhone Stand/Charger Dock – Handy for keeping your phone in view for login codes, texts, or quick references without it cluttering your workspace. for triage, UR, or case management roles. Wired options are often required.

What every remote nurse home office needs

When I think about what I actually needed in my home office, it boiled down to a few things: comfort, functionality, and not having cords and clutter everywhere.

Every job is different, and every nurse will have personal preferences. Give yourself some time to adjust to your remote role and focus on the basics first.

Start with what’s going to help you stay focused and comfortable throughout the day:

• Good lighting that won’t strain your eyes (blue blocking glasses are great too).
• Tech that works the way you need it to (headset, riser, mouse, etc.).
• A rolling chair that supports your back.
• A desk that is spacious enough for the equipment you use every day.

And from there, you can build in the extras that make the space feel like yours.

What My Setup Looked Like in My PRN Job vs Full-Time Role

My PRN remote job was very mobile, which was one of the best parts. As long as I followed HIPAA guidelines, I could work from just about anywhere. I needed a fast, reliable laptop, and I preferred using a MacBook because it was lightweight and could handle multiple tabs and programs at once. If you’re more comfortable with Windows, there are some great options available too.

Since I was working on the go, I relied on comfy noise-canceling headphones, a portable Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, and sometimes even used my iPad as a second screen extension. I kept a portable battery charger, cord organizers, and a sturdy backpack that made it easy to carry everything with me.

When I moved into my full-time remote role, the company provided all the core equipment: laptop, dual monitors, wired mouse and keyboard, and docking station. I was able to request an ergonomic mouse and keyboard, and they really made a difference with reducing wrist pain. Because of the dual monitor setup, plus a laptop, I needed a larger desk to accommodate everything comfortably. I also added a wrist cushion for my keyboard since I was typing for most of the day. I didn’t need a headset anymore since there was no phone time except for occasional meetings, and I mostly used the laptop’s built-in mic for those.

That shift from a mobile PRN setup to a more structured full-time one really showed me how much your space needs to reflect the reality of your day-to-day work. Most remote nursing roles require you to be at your desk all day, so it’s not about working from your couch or a coffee shop. You’re expected to be fully focused and working in a secure, professional setup.

You will get breaks to throw in some laundry, etc but you’re still at your desk the majority of the day. So, if you’re going to be sitting for hours, you might as well make it as comfortable and functional as possible!