A Question About Schedules

[wigirl06]

As someone who has worked bedside night shift (3 12 hour shifts) their whole nursing career (a little over 5.5 years), I feel like I'm ready for a change for multiple reasons; however, I don't think I want to work day shift in the hospital, at least at the bedside. The 12 hour shifts are still long, there's more going on and more to deal with, and the pay is less. I know myself and don't think I'd thrive in that environment. I find myself wanting to find something a little more non-traditional with a regular Monday - Friday schedule.

I know working 3 12 hour shifts does offer a lot of flexibility with scheduling and getting things done on days off, vacations, etc., but I feel like having a consistent, regular schedule would be good for me. I'd always work the same days, be able to get up early on my days off, and have the weekends and holidays free. Currently, I spend a lot of my time off just trying to readjust to a "normal" schedule and then it's time to go back to work.

If you have this type of schedule, do you prefer it? Do you feel like you have more or less free time? Do you miss working only 3 days? Are you overall happier?

[caliotter3]

People who work in extended care home health have maximum flexibility. You can work as little or as much as you want, particularly if you are with more than one agency. You make your schedule by telling your employer when you are available.

[WookieeRN, BSN, MSN, RN]

I work in the PACU setting at a Level 1 trauma center in a large city. I work 10 hour shifts x 4 days. Off nights, weekends, and holidays. We do call but there are people that pretty much take it all. I enjoy it.