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:D

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Specializes in ER/Critical Care.

Keep a water bottle handy! You'll be amazed at how different you will feel if you are hydrated vs. not. And if your water is always handy, you'll be more likely to stay hydrated.

And get some good shoes! They will make a huge difference as well. But good luck, and have fun!

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Specializes in Geriatrics, Alzheimers, Behavioral, SNF.

I agree with nursecass, along with the water and comfortable shoes I would add energy bars, or breakfast bars in case you get hungry and don't want to get too far from the unit. Last but not least energy drink just in case. Only use if you are dragging and barely halfway into your shift. I suggest 5 hour energy (it"s my favorite :rckn:) and unlike the redbull/rockstar you don't get the jitters/sugar crash :barf02:. But if you're like me your first day will mostly comprise of nerves which should keep you going the whole day. Good luck!

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Specializes in Acute Care Cardiac, Education, Prof Practice.

Get your charting done early. You might think you have all the time in the world, but in the end it goes by pretty fast.

Tait

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Specializes in Pediatrics Only.

Sleep.

Snacks.

Water.

Get enough sleep, nutrition, and drink throughout the day and you will be fine (and pee!)

Try to eat breakfast (either at home or at work) lunch, and perhaps an afternoon snack. I am always famished by the time I get home and jittery on the days that I dont eat the afternoon snack .

And most of all, enjoy it! You will learn lots!

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Specializes in Medical/Surgical, L&D, Postpartum.

I remember I had to do 12 hour shifts in nursing school. I did not like it that much, but maybe it was because I was not getting paid! hehehe I work 12 hour shifts now and I love them, I would never want to go back to 8's. But back to your question, you have great advice on the above posts...stay hydrated (and don't forget to take bathroom breaks =), get some comfy shoes because except for when you chart, you will be on your feet. I would suggest getting some good support hose, trust me you will feel the difference! Also, please take the time to take your 10-15 minute breaks, even though I know it can be difficult. Ask a lot of questions, and have a great time learning and giving great patient care! Keep us posted!

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Specializes in MICU/SICU.

Thank you guys so much! All of your advice is stellar! !

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Specializes in Med-Surg/Tele, ER.

Well, the best way I get through long shifts -

Don't think about it.

Last month, I did a 17 h shift (13 on my floor, plus 4 for a class in clinical on another unit). When I thought of "10 hr to go" or "halfway through", it was just discouraging. I consciously didn't consider time left, time done, blah blah blah, and it went much faster. Focus on the tasks at hand, and move through. This is also how I get through those regular shifts that just don't seem to end.

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