Help newbie switched to nights and a mess!

[heartsgal, ADN, RN]

I've been at my new hospital position on an inpatient acute care rehab unit for a few weeks now, working days and switched to nights this week and was an unorganized mess :\ The system that was working well for me on days didn't seem to mesh with nights at all, plus I went from 4 pts with a tech, to 6 pts (2 contact isolation) and no tech. I was overwhelmed to say the least. I got there and one of the nurses asked me to punch in 45 mins early because thier tech had went home sick and they had 2 new admits, so I jumped in to help her finish her admit. Afterwards my first pt. a very demanding total care one, had me in her room for 40 mins at start of shift and I was horribly behind all night afterwards giving some meds 2 hrs late. I felt like it was an epic fail and the charge nurse helped me catch up by giving one of my pts his meds. I told her I was sorry that I'm not a usually so crazy and unorganized. I'm pretty laid back but also kind of animated, laughing and being silly when I can because it's my personality, but I barely had time to smile a little for several hours. She was a huge help and told me it was fine and that I needed to find my rythm for nights. I'm praying tonight is better but any suggestions for the transition from days to night shift is greatly appreciated!

[krisiepoo]

to be honest, it sounds like you just had a bad start at nights...

Of course there is a little bit different of a rhythm, but for me it's usually a little bit less hectic because I don't have to deal with families, doctors, administration, etc...

[iPink, BSN, RN]

I recently switched to nights. However, I'm not on a highly stressful, with total care patients unit. I can still sympathize with you because my memory hasn't faded from experiencing being on a unit just like yours as a GN working days. I'm a bit surprised they allowed you to clock in early, because the staff that is already there is suppose to help the nurse.

My advise is to hang in there. Glad the CN encouraged you by saying that you'll find your groove and she's right, so give yourself time. Don't feel guilty that you asked the CN for help either because they are there for that reason.

[heartsgal, ADN, RN]

The next night I worked was much better thank God! I still need to find a rythm for nights though and when I should do my assessments etc. I'm still slow but getting the hang of the charting system here better. Now if I can just memorize the supply room I'll be on my way