How do you do it!? (TN)

Just like on the job, you have to prioritize. I don't work 12s very often, if at all because they aren't offered, but if I have to work several days in a row, I prioritize and multitask. It's about finding your own personal balance. If you look up The F.L.Y. Lady, you might get some tips on how to streamline your household needs.

Agree with PP. Prioritize! I am a single mom, so if I need to get up at 4am to start a load of laundry before work, then I do so. Or if I need to stay up till 11pm doing food prep for the week, then I do so. I can't put my life or my child's on hold just because I work 12hr shifts. I have responsibilities, and thing need to get done. And yes, I have also went from working a 12hr shift to going out and hanging with friends all evening. It's doable, you just have to make the time for these things.

I would do my 12s in a row. Before my first shift, I made sure I had enough scrubs to last me and that I had food in the house. For those 3 days I worked, ate, slept and repeat. Then I had 4 days to do whatever I wanted. :-)