I can't sleep!

beckersSN · Jul 11, 2007

I think something must be going around... I live in Lafayette and for some reason I could not sleep at all last night either! I felt really crazy last night... restless, uncomfortable, too hot even though it was cold inside. I was up all night and finally slept for about half an hour before I had to be to work. I'm only just starting nursing school this fall though so I still work a job that isn't that important. I don't think it would be unreasonable for you to call in. what if you make a mistake later on in your shift because you do start to get tired.

JohnBearPA · Jul 11, 2007

I would consider calling in sick if I knew I couldn't work effectively all night. I've worked double shifts, three days in a row, and had to call in sick the following shift because I was so overtired I just couldn't get to sleep. I feel that to be effective, you need rest, so consider calling in sick, it's better than making a huge mistake in meds or putting residents lives at risk. I'd be calling soon tho, so they can replace you. Best of luck!

SonicnurseRN · Jul 11, 2007

If you feel as if you are dangerously tired ... I would call in - you could make a mistake on meds

incublissRN, BSN, RN · Jul 11, 2007

Thanks for the responses. I decided to call in. I'm afraid I'd make a med error. My sleeping schedule is all wrong...the longer I work nights the worse it gets! I need to straighten it out pronto.

I always feel guilty when I call in sick but the thought of making another med error because I'm tired scares me to death.

ohmeowzer RN, RN · Jul 11, 2007

i was going to say call in.. we need mental health days once in awhile... i know i do...

teeituptom, BSN, RN · Jul 11, 2007

Yes I have called in for mental health days and even golf days

who needs more mental than I do

no one needs more golf that I do

Roy Fokker, BSN, RN · Jul 12, 2007

I'd call in.

And in the meantime, I advise you to hurry to a bookstore and buy yourself a copy of this; pronto. I tell you, if works better than Ambien!

cheers,

deeDawntee, RN · Jul 12, 2007

Hi,

I agree with what everyone has said, definitely call in if you haven't slept, it is too dangerous. Have you tried Benadryl or Melatonin? You may consider a sleeper from your Doc, there's that new one out there that doesn't cause dependence (Rozerim, I believe). Especially if this happens only occasionally.

I've worked nights for years and honest to God, sleep becomes the most important thing in my life!! Gotta get enough.

:yawn: :yawn: :yawn: can't be doing this at work!!!

incublissRN, BSN, RN · Jul 12, 2007

My doctor did give me a one time prescription for Ambien when I switched to nights in November. I see her again at the end of the month and will have to ask for some more. Maybe if I use it more regularly I will able to sleep when I need to!

deeDawntee, RN · Jul 12, 2007

My doctor did give me a one time prescription for Ambien when I switched to nights in November. I see her again at the end of the month and will have to ask for some more. Maybe if I use it more regularly I will able to sleep when I need to!

Why don't you give her office a call when it opens today. I'll bet she'd call a prescription in for you, especially if you have already gotten one before. Sleep is just toooooo important.

Good luck to you!!

Elvish, BSN, DNP, RN, NP · Jul 12, 2007

I take Lunesta & love it. I also use Benadry & melatonin (it comes in swallowable & SL forms) so as not to use up the Lunesta too fast.

I also take Zoloft, which has helped reduce the worrying & anxiety bit before I go to sleep. You may not be depressed, but you may at least want to take a questionnaire or something to see if that has something to do with it.

I have called in sick before when I didn't sleep. I didn't feel the least bit guilty, the hospital was still standing when I got back the next night, and I would do it again if I had to. Good luck, & GET SOME REST!!