My first 12hr shift !

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Specializes in MICU/SICU.

So, this is my first post to allnurses so bear with me if this is a repeat =-) I attempted some searches but was unsuccessful for my topic. I am a second semester RN student in Ca and I am starting my student nurse extern position this saturday. I've never worked a scheduled 12 hr shift (have worked 12hr + in veterinary ER but was only scheduled for 8). How do I prepare for this long day? Im sure it will fly right on by, but is it hard to get adjusted to at first? Any suggestions or tips would be greatly appreciated! Thanks! :D

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Specializes in LTC, Cardiac Step-Down.

Yes, it's hard to get used to at first, but it will also fly right on by.

Take your lunch (and eat it!!) as well as a mid afternoon snack (or two). If you're doing day shift, you'll be busy for the first few hours but then it *should* be easier for the last third of your day. It really won't seem like you've been there for twelve whole hours if you're working at a decent pace.

Also wear good quality shoes. There's plenty of info in the Nursing Gear forums if you don't have good shoes already. Your feet/legs will probably be sore after the shift and the next day though, despite having excellent shoes. It just takes your body a little while to get used to being on your feet for that long.

I love 12 hour shifts, hopefully you will too! Best of luck :)

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Convalescent Care.

I am getting ready to start my fourth (and final...YEA!!!) semester and we just did our 12-hour shift last month. It is not nearly as scary as it sounds. It flies by and I actually felt that it was easier because I had more time to do the things I needed to get done. Overall it was a very pleasant experience! I definately agree with the last poster: make sure you eat or you will hit a wall. I took a morning snack, a lunch and an evening snack. Hope this was at least a little bit helpful.

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I do 12 hours nights! 8 pm to 8 am and when I first started I got a case of that 5 hour energy drink from Costco and popped one around 1 am, no worries. You get used it quicker than you think!

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