Change of shift from 7am-3pm into 11pm-7am

[L0velyNurse]

Hello everyone...I just recently changed my schedule at work. I use to work 7am-3pm. It was really rough at first, being a new grad, learning to manage time and trying to get things done on time. But in time I finally got used to eveything, and everything day by day got easier. I was offered to work 11pm-7am and from what I was hearing it would be a much easier shift, so I took it. I had one day training so far and everything seems easier, because the patients were asleep, and their wasn't that many medications to be given. So far the only thing I found difficult was trying to fight off sleep. How long will it take for me to get used to the time change, and how do other night owl nurses stay energized during the night/morning? And besides changing the feedings, accu checks, scheduled meds, stocking/checking medications and equipment what else should be done during this shift? I want to do all I can during my shift. And i've noticed that I had more time to do things. Any advice would be much appreciated.

[CoffeeRTC, BSN, RN]

How about...getting the med and treatment carts stocked. Papework ready and copied for all the doc appts or discharges for the day. I also count the meds to send back to pharmacy, check charts for new orders and make sure they were taken off, etc, put a new nurses notes or MD order sheet in the charts (I hate when you go to chart and the last person used the last line). I would also look at supplies and make a list of what needs ordered. Letse....how about picking a resident and getting to know them..look thru their chart and find things you didn't know or weren't given in report. If you have free time after all of your nursing stuff is done....I would go down the halls and pitch in with rounds....you would be surprised what you can see/ learn/ find out and it builds team work.

As far as keeping the energy up...get up and get moving! Snacks or a meal....coffee.....When you do go home, make sure that you are getting sleep. A lot of thread on this if you do a search (I'm too lazy to look for the links)

[CapeCodMermaid, RN]

Good luck with the time change. It might take a few months till your body acclimates to the new time. I agree with the other post...don't forget your nursing summaries. too....24 hour checks are crucial as well.

[Diary/Dairy, RN]

It can take some time to get used to the change - I have gotten used to it and love nights now - Good luck to you!

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

I usually exercise at the health club immediately before reporting to work for night shift. The work-out usually causes me to be more awake and alert for work, and I usually don't become sleepy on days where I exercised prior to coming to work.

I'll shower at the health club and change into my uniform before arriving at work.