shifts

[lpjmmb]

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a 12 hour shift and an 8 hour one? I'm having a hard time trying to decide. Anyone have any insight on this? Perhaps someone has tried doing both? I'm also considering working night. Do you get used to it after a while or is it physically demanding? thanks!!

[PIANISTRN]

Hi,

I definitely think it's better to work 12 hour shifts. I work nights 7p-7am

3 nights a week and I'm off for 4. I have 2 kids also so it's good coz i can still drop them off and pick them up from school. If you have children it's definitely better to work nights so you don't miss any of the school events.

I have friends that work 8 hr shifts 5 days a week and they really don't like it.

It took me only a week to get adjusted to the nights schedule. It's definitely

feasible

[TouchstoneRN]

I have worked both. I personally like 12 hour shifts better. 12 hour days are great. 3 on 4 off or if you are motivated anything extra is OT. I like the fact that you keep the same pt assignment. You can get more done for your patients in 12 hours vs 8. Plus think about the travel time, gas for your car, less scrubs to wash and the two extra days at home. The way I feel about it is...if I am already there I might as well stay for 12 and have extra time off in full days. When I worked 8 hour shifts, I was usually there for 9 1/2 hours trying to finish my paperwork, treatments etc. then of course I would get reprimanded for not getting everything done in 8 hours and creating OT. Since switching to 12 hours I am able to get everything done in a timely mannner and rarely do I stay passed my time.

Hope this helps

[romashkarn]

Good , I am considering a 12 hour shifts too ..... someone said in earlier discusions that is not easy ,can I do it if I never worked nights before but I don't mind to go to sleep at 2 am and I am working now 11 hours ?