maybe transferring to days?!

RN44 · Oct 16, 2018

Wish I had the perfect answer for you! I switched to days months ago and still question if the best fit for me is where I currently am. Days are much more busy....and just so many interruptions.

sammi2006, ADN, BSN, RN · Oct 30, 2018

I switched to days almost 3 months ago and was afraid that I wouldn't be able to keep up because nights are so busy too. I have no regrets switching to days. I was on nights for about 2 1/2 years and I was so foggy every shift. Days are alot busier than nights, but I now have the clarity that I need to be able to handle dayshift.

nurseontheway · Nov 12, 2018

I have learned that confidence comes with practice. When I was a new grad I was terrified to do anything. Now I feel more confident in my judgment. I think you have to do what works best for you- I have never worked at night but I have heard that it can be just as busy. What is the shift that would give you the best work/life balance?

dennis8, ADN, BSN, CNA, RN · Nov 18, 2018

Hi! I have been on days for the past year and a half part time. I also work a day shift job. I'm ready to get off midnights, however I am TERRIFIED to do so at the hospital. Some nights I have are still incredible busy (med surg/step down ICU unit). I often work with new nurses too so that makes me very anxious as well. I am debating going to day shift, or taking a job at an outpatient clinic. I just don't know if I can handle the chaos of day shift. It would settle my mind knowing I have experienced nurses that can help me if needed, however I lack confidence sometimes and worry I wouldn't be able to keep up! I know this sounds silly, but sometimes I get overwhelmed on nights so I can't even imagine days. The outpatient clinic is nice, but part of me is so connected to working at the hospital. Sometimes the nights can be great, I love helping my patients, I love using my skills. And I don't know that I would get that in the clinic as much. But maybe the less stress is worth it? I'm a very anxious person to begin with, obviously hahah Please let me know your thoughts :)

I felt the same way and the only way to find out was to do it. I switched to days after being on nights for 1 year. I did day shift for 3 months and realized that I hated it. I love helping my patients and doing my skills, but I never felt like I could do that with doctors and other staff pulling you left and right. Accuchecks 3x a day with each meal. Family members egging you for things that are beyond your control. On good days it was great, on bad days it felt twice as worse as my worst night. The only consolation was being able to be on the same day time schedule with my wife. Day shift is definitely doable but it can be stressful at times with so many tasks and more getting piled up by the hour. I went back to nights and havent looked back since. At least I knew I tried it and I have no regrets. I am looking into trying something new after I get my 2 years in med surge but aiming for a day shift job. Kudos to day shift med surg nurses.