20 best nursing apps of 2026: tools for RNs, students, and specialists
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In complex healthcare settings, it’s fair to say that nurses are on the front lines. They deliver hands-on care, advocate for patients, and balance a wide range of responsibilities. In fact, nurses face a set of unique challenges: rotating shifts, heavy patient loads, emotional exhaustion, and constant demands for multitasking under pressure. Nursing students also deal with intense academic workloads, clinical anxiety, and the struggle to balance study with real-world experience.
Thankfully, the rise of technology is making the nursing journey easier. With the right apps, practicing nurses and students can learn effectively, stay organized, and feel more in control. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best apps for nurses.
To make life easier, we’ve organized these best nursing apps into simple categories based on what you need most, whether that’s studying for an exam, looking for a quick pharmacology reference, or just trying to stay on top of your schedule. There’s something handy for everyone.
Nursing education and exam prep apps
Nursing school can be tough, and exam prep is even tougher. The nursing learning apps below make studying easier and help you stay on track so you can feel ready for test day.
VOKA 3D Anatomy & Pathology
A solid understanding of anatomy and pathology is essential for nurses to deliver safe, accurate, and effective patient care. While anatomy provides the foundational knowledge of body structures, pathology helps nurses recognize clinical changes, interpret symptoms, and support treatment decisions.
VOKA 3D Anatomy & Pathology is an advanced anatomy learning tool for nursing students who prefer a more visual, hands-on approach. The app features 1,000+ high-quality, interactive 3D models, spanning anatomy, microanatomy, embryology, biomechanics, and a wide range of pathology cases. You can rotate, zoom, and explore each structure in detail, all from your phone, tablet, or computer. It helps future nurses build a solid knowledge base that’s essential for both studies and clinical practice.
Pros
A vast collection of high-fidelity models, grouped by specialty
19+ pathology categories
Augmented reality mode
Collection of medical articles
Multilingual support
One account for multiple devices
Regular updates
Cons
Model loading might take some time
Some sections are available only with a subscription
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android), web version.
Pricing
Free trial + subscription.
Taber's Medical Dictionary
A solid medical vocabulary is a must-have for every nurse. From reading charts to communicating with doctors, knowing the right terms matters. The Taber’s Medical Dictionary app is one of the most trusted and comprehensive apps for healthcare workers out there. Designed for healthcare professionals and students, it helps you quickly look up unfamiliar medical terms, abbreviations, conditions, and procedures. Each entry comes with clear definitions, audio pronunciations, images, videos, and charts to deepen understanding. It’s like having a mini medical encyclopedia right in your pocket.
Pros
Over 75,000 medical terms, with regular updates
Audio pronunciations for tricky terms
Helpful illustrations, charts, and videos
Quick search and browsing by category
Includes nursing-specific terms and abbreviations
Cons
Full access requires a paid subscription
The interface may feel outdated
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android), desktop, and web versions.
Pricing
Free + in-app purchases.
SimpleNursing
SimpleNursing is among the popular apps for nursing students preparing for the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exams. Trusted by over 1 million users, this app takes a fun, visual approach to learning. Created by healthcare professionals, SimpleNursing offers video lectures, detailed study guides, thousands of practice questions, and smart test-taking strategies — all packed into a user-friendly interface.
The content is designed with nursing students in mind, using colorful visuals, mnemonics, memory tricks, and animations to break down core topics like pharmacology, med-surg, peds, psych, OB, and more. It's especially great for those who learn best by watching and interacting.
Pros
1,200+ short and engaging instructional videos
900+ downloadable study guides
4,000+ NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN style questions with detailed rationales
Smart visual learning aids like infographics, charts, and animations
Customizable practice exams based on your weak areas
In-depth answer breakdowns to strengthen clinical thinking
Performance tracking to monitor progress over time
Cons
No direct sign-up in the mobile app — you have to register on the website first, then log in to the app
May feel too simplified for more advanced or graduate-level learners
Not relevant for European users
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android), web version.
Pricing
Free
NCLEX RN & PN Test Prep
NCLEX RN & PN Test Prep is a smart way to study for your nursing licensure exams, whether you're prepping for the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN. Built around the latest NP clinical guidelines, this NCLEX study app offers personalized quizzes, adaptive question sets, and study plans that adjust to your strengths and weaknesses. It breaks down all NCLEX categories and shows you exactly where you need to improve with dynamic scoring and goal tracking.
Pros
Covers both NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN in one app
Based on the latest exam guidelines
Adaptive questions and dynamic scoring
Personalized study goals and daily reminders
Includes an exam simulator to build test stamina
100% pass guarantee with a money-back option
Offline access
Cons
Full access requires a subscription
No video or multimedia learning formats
Compatibility
iOS only.
Pricing
Free + in-app purchases A money-back pass guarantee is included
Picmonic
Picmonic takes the stress out of memorizing complex nursing concepts with visual mnemonics that are fun and incredibly effective. Designed for nursing and medical students alike, this app turns hard-to-remember facts into short, cartoon-style videos packed with memorable characters, vivid imagery, and storytelling. It's like nursing flashcards got a sense of humor and a serious upgrade in retention. With over 2,000 videos and quizzes covering everything from pharmacology to pathology, Picmonic helps nursing students retain more in less time using spaced repetition and active recall.
Pros
2,000+ quick and fun mnemonic videos
Spaced repetition quizzes to improve long-term memory
Aligned with nursing textbooks and board exams
Covers core nursing topics
Includes motivational features like streaks and achievements
Cons
Cartoonish style might not appeal to everyone
Full content requires a paid subscription
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android), web version.
Pricing
Free access (5 days) + subscription.
Pharmacology for Nursing
Pharmacology is one of the challenging subjects in nursing school, filled with drug names, mechanisms, side effects, and safe administration practices. Pharmacology for Nursing is a focused test prep app for nursing schools built to make this challenge more manageable. With over 1,000 questions across 13 key topics (including cardio, neuro, endocrine, antimicrobials, and more), students can target weak spots and track their progress. This app also provides detailed explanations for each question, so it’s not just testing your knowledge but helping you build it.
Pros
1,000+ exam-style practice questions
Covers all major pharmacology areas for nurses
Detailed explanations to support learning
Progress tracking and performance stats
Easy-to-use interface for focused studying
Cons
Full access requires a subscription
No video or audio content
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android).
Pricing
Free + in-app purchases.
CPNP PC Pediatric Exam Prep
If you're preparing for the Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care (CPNP-PC) exam, this app is designed just for you. CPNP-PC Pediatric Exam Prep offers a focused, exam-specific study experience for pediatric nurse practitioners. With hundreds of realistic practice questions, full-length mock exams, and expert guidance, the app helps you build both confidence and competence. It’s especially useful for those who want personalized study plans and performance tracking.
Pros
Covers all major content areas of the CPNP-PC exam
Personalized study plans and quizzes
Simulated exams with real-time scoring
Detailed feedback and performance analytics
Regular updates reflecting the latest exam standards
Cons
Only available on iOS
No video lessons or live review sessions
Compatibility
iOS only
Pricing
Free + in-app purchases.
Clinical skills apps
Mastering clinical skills is a crucial part of every nurse’s training and daily practice. The following apps are designed to help you sharpen your hands-on skills and learn new techniques.
Skyscape Medical Library
Skyscape Medical Library is a powerhouse clinical reference app built for RNs, nursing students, and healthcare professionals who need fast, reliable answers at the point of care. The app is designed to support real-world clinical decision-making, offering access to over 350 authoritative medical resources, from drug guides and diagnostic manuals to procedural handbooks and clinical calculators. Whether you're cross-checking meds, reviewing disease guidelines, or calculating dosages, Skyscape keeps all the information you need in one centralized, searchable platform.
Pros
Massive library of over 350 trusted resources
Free tools like a drug interaction checker and 200+ clinical calculators
Regular updates and offline access are available
Cons
Most premium content requires individual purchase or subscription
The interface may feel dense for new users unfamiliar with clinical tools
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android), web version.
Pricing
Free + in-app purchases.
Nurse’s Pocket Guide
The Nurse’s Pocket Guide app brings textbook-quality care planning to your fingertips. Building a care plan from scratch or trying to match a patient’s symptoms to a diagnosis? This app streamlines the process with over 400 conditions tied to official NANDA diagnoses. Each entry includes not just the diagnosis but also subjective and objective signs, prioritized interventions with rationales, and NIC/NOC classifications. So, if you’re tired of flipping through care planning books during rounds or study sessions, this app brings everything together in a searchable, customizable format.
Pros
400+ conditions linked with NANDA nursing diagnoses
Prioritized interventions with clinical rationales
Supports full-text search, highlights, and note-taking
Includes NIC/NOC classifications and care planning tips
Bookmark and organize favorite diagnoses
Cons
The interface may feel outdated compared to newer apps
Doesn’t include quiz or test prep functionality
Full access may require in-app purchases
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android).
Pricing
Free preview + in-app purchases.
Davis’s Lab & Diagnostic Tests
Interpreting lab values and diagnostic results is a critical part of delivering safe, evidence-based nursing care. Davis’s Lab & Diagnostic Tests app makes it easier to interpret and act on that information. Designed for both nursing students and clinicians, this resource covers over 400 tests with a focus on preparation, procedure, and follow-up care. Each monograph breaks down the test's purpose, how to prepare the patient, what to expect during the test, and how to interpret both normal and abnormal results. Beyond the basics, this top-rated medical app includes thoughtful guidance on sensitive clinical issues like vaccine hesitancy and trauma-informed care, along with detailed nursing implications and clinical judgment prompts.
Pros
400+ detailed test entries with pre-, intra-, and post-test guidance
Nursing implications tied to clinical judgment and the nursing process
Covers specialty areas like maternity and therapeutic drug monitoring
Full-text search, cross-references, highlights, and notes
Includes appendices with critical values and procedural checklists
Cons
Full access requires in-app purchases
The interface may be dense for quick browsing
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android).
Pricing
Free preview + in-app purchases.
Psychiatric Nursing
Mental health care requires not just empathy but also clinical precision, therapeutic communication skills, and an understanding of psychiatric conditions. The Psychiatric Nursing app is a comprehensive mobile resource that equips nursing students and professionals with the tools to build individualized care plans and safely administer psychotropic medications. With detailed nursing diagnoses, concept mapping, and therapeutic goals, it’s a powerful blend of theory and actionable care strategies.
Split into two key sections, diagnostic planning, and medication guidance, the app makes it easier to address complex psychiatric conditions in any setting. It’s a subscription-based nurse app that is regularly updated to reflect new disorders, drug therapies, and communication techniques.
Pros
Fully updated to align with DSM-5 and current psychotropic medications
Covers both psychiatric assessment and pharmacological care
Includes detailed nursing interventions, goals, rationales, and outcomes
Emphasizes therapeutic communication and real-world application
Cons
Full content requires an annual subscription
Focused solely on psychiatric nursing (not general mental health)
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android).
Pricing
Free preview + subscription for full access.
Medical reference and best drug apps for nurses
In this section, you’ll find the best medical apps for nurses that provide instant access to drug information, diagnostic tools, clinical calculators, and disease overviews. These all-in-one resources streamline care decisions and enhance clinical confidence with evidence-based content.
Davis's Drug Guide for Nurses
When it comes to medication safety, Davis’s Drug Guide for Nurses is one of the most trusted medication apps for nurses in the field. Designed specifically for nursing practice, this guide features over 5,000 drug monographs with detailed information on indications, administration, side effects, interactions, and patient teaching points. With emphasis on high-alert drugs, pediatric and geriatric considerations, and FDA updates, the app equips nurses with everything needed to ensure safe and effective medication administration. The app’s built-in search, bookmarks, color-coded notes, and even audio pronunciations help streamline access to critical information.
Pros
Comprehensive coverage of 5,000+ drugs
Medical alerts for pediatrics, geriatrics, pregnancy, and breastfeeding
Highlights drug interactions, REMS content, and pharmacogenomics
Personalizable with notes, bookmarks, and color coding
Includes herbal and Canadian-specific entries
Cons
Subscription required for full access
The interface may feel dense for beginners
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android), web version.
Pricing
Free preview + subscription for full access.
Epocrates: Drug Checker App
A long-standing favorite among healthcare professionals, Epocrates has earned its reputation as a fast, reliable drug app for nurses. With a vast database of over 6,000 prescription and OTC drug monographs, robust interaction checking for up to 30 medications at once, and an intuitive pill identifier, Epocrates is more than just a drug guide — it’s a pocket-sized clinical assistant. Clinicians rely on it daily for accurate dosing, contraindications, black box warnings, and even herbal supplement info, all available offline for on-the-go access.
Pros
Pill identifier app with interaction checker and dosing calculator
Covers drugs, herbs, supplements, and lab values
Offline access is ideal for hospital rounds or remote care
Frequently updated and clinically reviewed
Cons
Premium features require a paid subscription
Focus is primarily U.S.-based (may lack some global content)
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android), web version.
Pricing
Free basic version + for full access.
Drugs.com Medication Guide
Drugs.com Medication Guide is among the best drug reference apps for nurses, designed for quick, reliable access to detailed drug information and medication management tools. Built on the foundation of the popular Drugs.com website, this app brings trusted data on over 24,000 medications (prescription, OTC, and natural products) right to your fingertips. Its standout features include a reliable interaction checker, a daily updated pill identifier, and the ability to create personalized medication records that help users stay organized and informed. Drugs.com also offers FDA alerts, Q&A forums, a phonetic drug name search, and even a free prescription discount card.
Pros
Massive drug database with up-to-date, peer-reviewed info
Personalized medication records and alerts
Discount cards accepted at 60K+ U.S. pharmacies
Pill identifier and interaction checker are quick and intuitive
Consumer- and clinician-friendly interface
Cons
U.S.-centric (may lack international drug coverage)
Occasional in-app ads in the free version
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android), web version.
Pricing
Free with optional features (no subscription required)
MDCalc Medical Calculator
MDCalc Medical Calculator is a trusted tool among clinicians for real-time, evidence-based clinical decision support. With over 550 calculators spanning 35+ specialties, MDCalc offers risk scores, dosing tools, formulas, and algorithms vetted by board-certified physicians, making it an indispensable app for nurse practitioners, physicians, and pharmacists alike. Whether you're assessing stroke risk, adjusting medication dosages, or determining sepsis criteria, MDCalc streamlines complex calculations into fast, clinically relevant outputs.
Pros
550+ evidence-based tools across dozens of specialties
Created and reviewed by board-certified physicians
CME credits available for over 150 calculators
Works offline
Cons
CME credits require a paid CME plan
May be overwhelming for casual users or students
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android), web version.
Pricing
Free access with registration
Pedi STAT
Pedi STAT is an essential emergency pediatric nurse app designed to deliver fast, accurate, and weight-based calculations. Developed by an emergency physician, this app streamlines critical care by instantly generating drug dosages, equipment sizes, and resuscitation data using minimal input like age, weight, and height. Pedi STAT ensures you're never guessing in high-stakes pediatric emergencies. It’s especially valuable in fast-paced environments where pediatric patients often present with little background information.
Pros
Instantly calculates age/weight-based dosing and equipment
Covers resuscitation, airway, sedation, seizures, hypoglycemia, and more
Designed specifically for pediatric emergency scenarios
Simple interface
Cons
No integration with broader drug or disease references
No free version
Compatibility
Mobile app (iOS and Android).
Pricing
One-time purchase
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