new nurse working rotating shifts and hating it

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Specializes in inpatient rehabilitation.

Hi everyone, I am a newer nurse, been at my current job for 8 months now on a rehabilitation unit in a hospital. I work 12 hour rotating shifts, 2 weeks days 7am-7pm then 2 weeks nights 7pm-7am. I took the job because I was right out of nursing school at the time, but now I am struggling with this schedule. I have become very depressed and my sleep is totally off. I feel like I can never make plans and when family events come up on weekends I either sacrifice sleep to go after working night shift or I just don't go. I am looking for a more stable schedule, but feel conflicted about leaving. What do you think about rotating shifts, or do you have any advice?

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What do you think about rotating shifts
Rotating shifts should be outlawed.

If your manager won't commit you to either straight days or straight nights, find another who will. Above all else, take care of yourself.

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Specializes in Operating Room Nursing.

Rotating shifts are the norm here in Australia. I did this for eight months and my body suffered for it. I hate not having a routine and quite often had to take sleeping pills after going off nights. We had to work late shifts 2:30pm to 1100 pm, go home then be back at work by 7am. This is considered as normal. I agree that they should be made illegal for patient and staff safety.

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Specializes in Tele.

I agree. Take care of yourself and find a job where you have a steady schedule.

Rotating shift is horrible. I could never do that.

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