How do you keep the Graveyard Shift from killing you?

[Emptynstr2]

i am in that long waiting period between turning in the nursing school application and the final verdict. to fill the time and gain some kind of experience in a hospital setting, i have taken a job as a unit secretary in the icu. the job is interesting and eye-opening to say the least, but my 48 hours a week composed of shifts from 7 pm to 7 am are really doing a number on my social life and sanity. is there anyone out there who has successfully survived this wacky type of schedule?:zzzzz any suggestions on how to make these long shifts doable and have a normal lifestyle at the same time? since these long hours are a big part of life in the nursing arena, i had better learn how to deal with them. help! by the way, i applied to tarrant county college in fort worth, texas for fall 2009. anyone out there applying along with me? thanks for your time and suggestions.

[pharmgirl]

I am waiting with baited breath for someone to answer this post also. I am 2nd semester student and started my preceptorship last week. Unfortunately, luck of the draw, she is on 12 hour graveyard shifts. So aside from working 7p - 7am I am also required to make it to classes. 100 more hours to go!! if it doesn't kill me first. Anyone have any suggestions?

[Natingale, EdD, RN]

I work as a secretary on nights 3 days a week 12 hours

PLUS Im a nursing student

its not so bad, when I go to bed around 8:30 ..i try to wake up at a decent time ..1ish (if i dont have work again at night) then go to bed like a normal human being around 9-10.

If i have to go back at night, I will crash till 3:30 4 oclock

Its only 3 days a week, your social life will be there the other 4

Now that Im in nursing school, I work weekend nights (co workers love it, but hate me when im off from school and I want a weekend off --the nerve)

Its doable. I stay busy, im in the ED so if there are no charts or phone traffic I'll help transport patient to tests, make beds. Etc etc.