2wicked

I feel your pain. I am typing this as I get through my night shift. Yes, it's tough, but there are ways to make it less so. My humble tips should be taken with a grain of salt, cause they won't work or be applicable to everyone. The number one danger of night shift is loss of sleep. I'm a psych RN and I'm sure I don't have to say that without sleep, for even just a couple of days, we all become unglued, and unable to tell the difference between reality and non-reality. I am a huge believer in "whatever works". I highly recommend a Lunesta prescription. No Ambien. Why? I've seen people who use Ambien become unstable, have mood swings and can sleep walk. Lunesta seems to work very well for me and my night shift peers. I recommend a "holiday" from time to time, so there is no chance of tolerance or dependence. Also, caffeine is your best friend. It's unnatural to be awake overnight, so I trick my brain with highly caffeinated coffee and Tea (I recommend Republic of Teas caffeine infused Teas), which you can find online. I also recommend running. If you can go on a 2-3 mile run before or after your shift, it will provide you with several benefits. If you don't run, or have never tried, a personal trainer can get help get you up to speed. You'll be more focused and present, will be more relaxed and you'll sleep better. I'm a huge believer in running, for so many reasons. Another tip: Get a Pit crew. My wife is my pit crew for me when I do my 3, 12hr night shifts. I use the example of a race car driver and a supportive pit crew. My wife ensures I have clean scrubs and prepares espresso/tea, meals and snacks for work. She also ensures that when I start looking and sounding like a zombie after work, that I'm getting to bed at a decent hour. Another tip: I highly recommend black out curtains, and eye covers, and ear plugs, so after you take your Lunesta, the sunlight/noise won't keep you awake. I know these tips may seem odd, but I've been using them for years they've helped my survive and thrive on nights. Best of Luck!

Hello Everybody! My wife (RN) and I,(LPN) have been reading this site for a long time. It's so wonderful that Nurses support each other! My wife is an RN through Kaplan, (don't get me started, not enough time) and I'm a vet Corpsman taking my CPNE a week from today in Albany NY. My wife has really helped me with the studying, and putting it together. I just wanted to say good luck to all those who sacrifice and push ourselves out of our comfort zones to strive for something better. Even if I'm not successful the first time, it will not deter me from my goal of RN. All the posts I've read of information, breaking stuff down, or just straight talk is very much appreciated. Thank you Nurses!! 2Wicked