Nightshift nurse worries

[p2of8]

I am finding that as a night shift nurse I am overlooked. In-services have been scheduled only one time per day, in the middle of my sleep time and our Administrator has no sympathy in regards to this. The Administrative staff does not take us serious because we are not there when dealing with families, doctors, telephones, admissions, etc. that are happening during "normal business hours." I have found that I have been given very little respect and there is no trust. I don't feel like a valued employee. During my interview and hiring, I was told that I was highly respected already by how I presented myself and due to my references. We are told that we may contact Administration should anything arise or if we have questions/concerns. This has proved to not be true. I am hoping someone can give me some advice. Thank you in advance.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

I prefer nights because I actually want to be overlooked by management and be able to fly under the radar. I don't want the extra attention coming in my direction. I like going to work, avoiding the daylight politics found on day shift, and going home.

However, it is different strokes for different folks. If you feel the need for more recognition for all that you do, perhaps it is time to transfer to a day shift slot.

However, your self-value and self-worth as a person and nurse can only come from within. If you look to administration, management, and others to reaffirm that you are a valued employee, you are only going to experience much disappointment in your career. Never look to others for personal validation. Good luck to you!

[BrandonLPN, LPN]

Yeah, if you want attention and recognition, night shift might not be for you. Remember, though, as the night nurse you tend to take on a lot more responsibility than the day or evening nurses. You work with less support and are often the "only" nurse, not just charge nurse.

[ThoracicRN4u]

I am a night nurse and have been for a while. I too like flying under the radar of management or "suits" as I call them. I agree that night nurse are definately under supported and left out or not given appropriate options to attend certain events. Although I have worked some places where there has been an initiative to hold meetings and such at different times to accommodate both shifts. I joined a committee at work that also helped get more options rolling.

Sigh.....

As far as the recognition part, that's tough. Each shift blames the previous shift/nurse for things, it's a vicious cycle.

I guess I would have to say it varies among facilities. If you find that your not getting recognition to your liking and you "think" it will improve in day shifts then apply to switch shift. I do like what another post said about finding pride within yourself.

I do my job and I do it the best I can. I do pick up the "slack" for people if you will, bit*h about later and remember I am here for the patients.

It's a tough battle but good luck

[aspyer]

Sorry to hear you feel disrespected but you seem to be working the wrong shift if you feel the need to have interaction with administration, like most of the previous post indicated. One of the reasons most of us love the night shift is not to have as much interaction with the suits, yes we handle a bit more responsibilities supervisors and nurses have to handle everything by themselves usually with less staff. The respect and recognition comes from the staff you work with whoever else you may interact with while on duty and most importantly the residents under your care. As far as in service we do in service for each shift during their time on duty do you get paid for coming in on your time off for in service. If you feel there is that need for having more of a work relationship with admin then night shift may not be the right choice, but if it's just about respect then just be confident in doing your best for the residents under your care at all times. At the end of the day their respect is the only one that really matters.

[April White-Lewis, ADN, LPN]

I am also a night shift nurse and I love it, but my only issue is being away from home. I agree with everything everyone before me has said. I plan to work night shift a little longer though. At least until I finished most of my RN courses.

[xxdday2009]

Great threading I work nights not by choice I agree that working nights allow you to fly under the radar but if you are a strong worker you will no one will bother you as we'll during days. I feel that nights workers are often a lot more lazy than day not always by choice. Just what I've seen so far