I can't believe I actually *like* night shift!

[SopranoKris, MSN, RN, NP]

I'm a new grad (May 2015) and started my first RN job in July. During orientation, I was exclusively on day shift. I was so worried about switching over to night shift. I have to say, I'm pleasantly surprised at how much I really like the night shift.

I was worried I'd be bored because the patients would be asleep. Nope! I bust my butt from start of shift to end. I feel I'm actually busier on night shift than I was on days. It's a rare night that all of my patients sleep at the same time. And even then, I invariably get a new admission from the ER. The only draw back to night shift is that we get short-staffed a lot (especially on weekends) and we have higher patient ratios.

If I need to have an appointment, I can just schedule it in the morning, so I don't have to take time off. I really like it. My kids are older and all of them can drive now, so I don't have to worry about schlepping them to sporting or school events. :)

Night shift rocks

[NurseEmmy]

PLUS you don't deal with management most days, fewer family members to cater to, etc. Night shift is not easy for most jobs, but it does have its perks.

[SopranoKris, MSN, RN, NP]

PLUS you don't deal with management most days, fewer family members to cater to, etc. Night shift is not easy for most jobs, but it does have its perks.

Yeah, the shift differential pay is also a nice bonus :)

[Horseshoe, BSN, RN]

The night shift nurses I knew loved it and would never ever agree to go to days.

I just couldn't do it. I've never been able to stay up late. I'd get light headed and nauseated every morning about 2 am. I was a wreck with all of the messed up sleep cycles. My husband did not "get it" (he once woke me up at noon on a Saturday after I'd worked all night, saying "are you going to sleep all damn day?").

It's great that you love the night shift! We need you guys, and you earn every penny of that dif.

[Everline]

I can't imagine what would compel me to go back to days, at least where I currently work. I highly prefer night shift. Yeah, sleep can be an issue sometimes, but other than that nearly everything is better on nights, including the pay. I'm glad you are finding it to your liking, too.

[~PedsRN~, BSN, RN]

I love night shift. :) Less unnecessary stuff, more time to be a NURSE.

[Ruby Vee, BSN]

Night shift rocks! Day shift is just too much: too much management, too many ancillary services, too many consultants, too much rounds, too much PT, too many visitors . . . . .

[YumCookies, BSN, RN]

I'm a new grad as well and I've been working night shift since March. Didn't think I would enjoy it but I absolutely love it! No family, no management, no drama, no rush hour traffic...plus the shift diff is nice!

[MrNurse(x2), ADN]

After 28 years, my statement about day shift, tongue in cheek, of course, "they must be brain damaged, more work for less pay". It gets harder the older I get, but I love the autonomy, you are much more responsible for your patients, as your eyes are the only trained ones on that pt.

[calivianya, BSN, RN]

After 28 years, my statement about day shift, tongue in cheek, of course, "they must be brain damaged, more work for less pay". It gets harder the older I get, but I love the autonomy, you are much more responsible for your patients, as your eyes are the only trained ones on that pt.

I've been saying that about day shift nurses for ages. I will never, ever, ever work a day shift if I can help it.

[seasidesoul]

I'm actually starting to get excited about switching to night shift...

[flyersfan88]

Night shift is the best. Better team work, fewer people. Way better bonding time with coworkers. Love love love it and the extra money.