Returning to 8 hour shifts from 12 hours

[nurseling]

I first began doing 8 hour shifts (rotating days and evenings). I found it difficult to be at work so much, but mind you I was a new grad and everything was a challenge for me. Eventually I switched over to 12 hour shifts (days and nights) and while I had more days off, the quality of my days off was ruined due to this constant state of fatigue from rotating days to nights, nights to days. My body never had time to adjust. I began to feel really depressed and unwell. Now I am considering going back to 8 hour shifts days and evenings. I figure, for me the benefits will outweigh the cons.

For one thing, my day will be broken up. I wont spend so much tim inside the hospital or at the patient's bedside. I will still have time to eat healthy meals at home, sleep in the comfort of my bed and get at least 8 hours regardless of what shift I work, I will be able to exercise more and maybe actually have more of a life..

I'm wondering if anyone here has returned to 8 hour shifts after 12's. Did you find it was an improvement in any way?

[Altra, BSN, RN]

I too prefer 8s, for pretty much the reasons that you've mentioned. Is 3 8s and a 12 an option in your unit?

[nurseling]

I'll find out. That might be a good option. As long as I don't do nights is what's important.