Nights to days...

[acuariaRN]

I have been a nurse 7p-7a on my unit for 4 yrs, having the coveted weekend night position (3 day weekends, 3 weekends a month = 9 days a month) with no sick time or paid vacation time for the past 2.5 yrs. I love the pace on night shift and the people I work with, but after 4 years I feel that night shift is taking its toll on me. I try to stay awake all night when I have off, but there really isn't much to do at night but sit around and eat (when I'm off that is...). I've gained about 25 lbs since I started, feel like my IQ and attention span are not what they used to be and I miss the sun!

I've decided to apply for a day shift position that just opened up. It's 13 days a week 7a-7p with sick and vaca time. Of course, the days won't be all in a row... but at least I'll be awake at approx the same time every day and hopefully be able to enjoy the outdoors more often. I'm just terribly apprehensive about the change of pace between the shifts. I equate day shift to spinning plates while running around on roller skates... I'm a good nurse, I'm just hoping I don't crack under the pressure!

Also, my partner is going to school for radiography and currently works night shift... Working opposite shifts will be tough as we don't live together :-(

To all you dayshift nurses out there (or anyone who has worked both shifts)... any words of wisdom to help make the transition easier? lol... I don't know why I'm so worried...

[QTPYE]

Dont worry you will get used to it! Give yourself a month or two to make the transition. I have worked all types of shifts and each has its benefits and drawbacks. My body cant handle nights so I would have a ton of anxiety if I needed to do this shift in the future. Good luck.

[jjensen]

You will adjust I am sure. I have no trouble working nights and that is what I prefer. The pace and seeing my family more during the day is nice. I am home when they get off the bus and my husband his here at night with them. I only work 2-3 12 hour nights, so I am not gone that much... You will have to just take your time and you will be fine... :)