Day Vs Night Shift

[astucki3]

What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of working a night versus a day shift for a new graduate nurse?

[Nolli]

Depends on the unit. My friend who worked alternating nights and days on an inpatient ortho unit said some nights it was nice and quiet and others it was crazy because of people being up and having a lot less staff to deal with anything. Coming from someone who worked on the emergency side of things nights are absolutely crazy when people get off from work go out etc.

The bonus to having a night shift is when it is quiet you can sit down and breathe, but it really messes with your sleep cycle and ability to hang out with day shift oriented friends/family. Some places offer pay differential for nights and weekends because it is not as sought after.

Keep in mind we both worked in the capacity of CNAs, not nurses, but hope that helps.

[Ruby Vee, BSN]

Your question isn't very specific, so I'm not sure what you're looking for. In general, though, night shift has the advantage that you're more likely to actually GET that shift. It tends to be quieter, so you have more time to look things up, figure things out, go get help than you do on day shift. You're also more autonomous. You can plan your shift to a higher degree than you can on day shift -- no management, teams of rounding specialty services, ancillary services or visitors to force a quick change in plans. You can actually get to your patient. Night shift differential is a big advantage as well.

[meanmaryjean, DNP, RN]

PLUS- all the cool kids work nights! :)

[Dranger]

Tighter group of nurses because of less resources, MONEY and less hustle and bustle but it doesn't get crazy sometimes

[sistrmoon, BSN, RN]

I've been a nurse 7 years and have always worked nights. I think as a new grad it can be challenging because there are less resources. Yes if it is a calm night, night shift is awesome about helping each other out but if it's flat out, there aren't extra hands to help. The autonomy can be a little daunting when you're new. But all the other things: differential, less family/visitors/management/doctors/med students breathing down your neck are definitely advantages. The sleep is always hard, even after years of doing it.