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One of our jurors in our current trial is a nurse. I was talking to her today, and she said that all hospitals have 12-hours shifts, not 8. Is that true?? How does anyone stay on their feet and do a good job over a 12-hour shift??

We have a mix of shifts 4, 8 or 12. Works pretty well most of the time.

I personally do three 12's (get paid for 40 hrs though) and it isnt all that bad.... four days off a week is nice :)

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We have 8 or 12-hour shifts. Our UM is very accommodating to our needs for PTO, too. Another reason why I love my job! :D

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho.

I think most have posted about their shifts in their facilities. Mine is no different.

I do like the 12 hour shifts, doesnt make me feel as rushed trying to finish everything in 8 hours, the patients like having the same face for a longer period of time, it gives you time to get to know your patients, and as everyone else said more days off in the month.

As far as breaks go, i take my breaks as i can. If I miss a meal i just grab something from the vending machine for a snack and god knows it doesnt hurt a bit for me to miss a meal or two now and then, but i make sure i get off the unit a couple times in the 12 hours if not only for a few minuutes.

And 2ndcareerRN,, kudos to you and those 6 12's. OUch!!!

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In the Nursing Standard today I read a trust that has cut sickness and agency by half by working a 4 day week of 2x12 and 2x6.25hrs.

I have worked in other jobs where I've done 4 days on 4off 12 hrs. I like the days off but I spent the first one sleeping!!

In UK hospitals each of the wards decide their own shifts depending on their type of ward.

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My organization offers 4, 8, and 12 hour shifts. Frequesntly, you may mix and match them to suit your needs.

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Thanks! I'm just going to go for it! What happens, happens! Just got a little overwhelmed at the thought of being on my feet for 12 hours!

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We work a 12 hour shift pattern in our department and apart from the odd grumble most staff don't mind. It has proved a success with us that most of the hospital is now offering 12 hour shifts for their staff

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At our hospital if you have a gazillion years of seniority you can get straight 7-3 shifts. If you are a newbie you might be able to negotiate straight 3-11 shifts. We also have the option of 3 12's or 2 12's and 2 8's. Part-timers can do 4 hr shifts. A nice option for old decrepit nurses like some of us are getting to be.

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We also do 12-hour shifts at my hosptial on every unit except Continuing Care...that's 8-hour shifts. Most people like the 12's, for the days off that you get...I think that's the most common theme. And those with kids like it because you're not working every day of the week.

I like them and I don't...I like the days off, but I don't like getting off so late in the day. And I don't like 12-hour nights...hate them! 8-hour nights are great...you can still go out and enjoy yourself for the evening!

Amanda :)

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Specializes in Geriatrics/Oncology/Psych/College Health.

We do a combo of 8's and 12's - as always, 3p-7p particularly and 3-11 in general are the hard shifts to cover. A couple of people work 4 hours.

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I LOVEEEEEEEEEEEE 12 hour shifts... depending on the hospital and your contract you work 3 days and get 4 off.... yessss sometimes its brutal, but 12 hours actually gives you a chance to meet and really take care of your patients. I would never go back to 8 NEVERRRRR !!!!

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i would like to know when you work 3 12 hrs shift are they one behind the other

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