Okay .... I have been a nurse for a really long time (almost 20 years now). One day everyone was working 8-hour shifts and then I woke up and the next day all that was available was 12-hour shifts. Can someone tell me why nurses like 12-hours better than 8-hours?
Ok - I know that when you work 12-hours ... you have more days off. But for me, it has been a real balancing act. I feel like when I am working, I can't do anything with my kids. The day is just shot! Forget about working nights! Once you finally get your sleep, your days off are gone.
So tell me, when and why did nurses agree to work 12 hours and how do you all balance your life, family obligations and your days off? Oh, and when you work 12 hours, you lose 4 hours a week. When you work 8 hours, you actually get paid for 80 hours in a payperiod. Why would nurse want to lose 8 hours a payperiod? That really confuses me.
I have made a decision and am starting a new job as an RN that offers me 8 hour days .... I have to tell you I can't wait. No more back breaking 12 hours for me.
Thanks for helping me understand this crazy trend in nursing.
Patrick