So, I was next on the list to go to day shift on my unit. I accepted without reservation (have always wanted days, just knew I needed to wait my turn). I feel like an entirely different person, feel like "me" again. Cheerful, optimistic again, more quality time off, time to spend with my husband. It's great! I made the best of it before, but still always felt tired no matter how much sleep I got.
Didn't take any time to adjust at all. Felt better immediately. I knew this would happen since whenever I took vacation time before for just a week off, I felt normal during that week. I loved who I worked with on nights, and will miss them, but the day people are cool, too, and it's awesome that when I get 3 days off, I actually have 3 whole days off.
Either way, it's a day off! The birds are chirping, and it's beautiful! A month ago, I would have said, "Ugh, stupid birds. Just start raining so I can sleep."
I will say: If you're wondering whether or not you need a change of shift or new job, wait for the change of shift at your job first. Feeling rested on days off makes a huge difference on one's outlook on just about everything. I will also say: new nurses new to ICU? It's best to start on night shift so you can learn. I think most new nurses would drown on day shift on my unit, and that's probably the case for other units, as well.
