I do realize that I am lucky to be able to work straight days and not have to rotate shifts, that really throws my body for a loop. But, I'm having trouble with the 12 hour days. First, 7a is just too early for me. I have to wake up around 5:30 and I spend all night worrying about if I'll wake up or not. So, I'm tired to start with. I usually do pretty well once I'm there and I like the job itself. Then, around 5 or 5:30, I just feel myself crashing and the rest of the shift I feel exhausted. I can't really do caffeine at that time of day because then I really won't sleep. I thought I'd get used to the schedule, but it's now 10 months and I'm still having trouble. On my days off, I do go to sleep and wake up about an hour later (so 6:30 and 9:30/10 instead of 5:30 and 9/9:30).
You could try Benadryl, which contains the same chemical compounds as your over the counter sleep aids. A hot bath works well for me. I also never get into my bed until I'm tired. Tossing and turning doesn't help your sleep.
I drank half a mountain dew and had an energy gel (like runner's use) at 1400 yesterday and was much better, still tired and able to sleep just fine last night, but not struggling during my shift. Thanks you all!
joanna73, BSN, RN
4,767 Posts
You could try Benadryl, which contains the same chemical compounds as your over the counter sleep aids. A hot bath works well for me. I also never get into my bed until I'm tired. Tossing and turning doesn't help your sleep.