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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.
Do-over, ASN, RN
1,085 Posts
Yikes, my nights weekend is Friday night into Saturday and Saturday night into Sunday. So, on off weekends you may get off work Fri morning, but don't have to go back that night. Unlike dayshift, where I work almost every single Friday...