First night shift!!

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This summer I'm working as a nurse tech doing 12 hour shifts in the Family Birthing Center.. I will be switching to nights next month and I was hoping someone share with me how they prepare for their shift. i.e. what times do you sleep before your shift.. how much/when do you sleep after your shift? My schedule is really random and the shifts are spaced about by a day or two each.. So any tips would be appreciated!!

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It varies for each individual.

On the night of my first shift, I try to sleep late and catch a nap before I go to work.

I usually stay up about an hour when I get home to wind down, then sleep for a good 8-9 hours if I can. Make sure the room is dark and the phones are turned off.

The tricky part for me is my days off. Some people are able to go back to a regular schedule, others stay in night shift mode. If I go to bed early, chances are Ill be wide awake at 3AM.

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Specializes in Acute Care Cardiac, Education, Prof Practice.

I generally go to bed around 5am on nights off, take naps on the first day back. By the third day on I am snoozing the majority of my 12 hours between shifts.

Best advice, clear your head, and your schedule for the day. Don't worry if you don't sleep 8 hours straight. Get a chunk in, then try to nap on the couch til work time.

I found I didn't get sleepy at work until the newness wore off after about a month, then I hit a wall, but I got over it. That and escaping 8 hour shift and starting 12 hour ones really helped.

Best of luck!

Tait

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