Starting on night shift??advice??

[JGBSNRN]

So..On orientation yesterday the interviewers suggested I think about what shift I want as a new RN..either 3pm-11pm or 7pm-7am. I like 12 hour shifts because they leave me more available during the week. Now here is my concern..I usually get sleepy about 12am-1am. How do people keep themselves up..Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[NotReady4PrimeTime, RN]

There are dozens of threads here that address working nights. DId you try the search feature at the top right of the screen? Keywords "night shift" should get you several hours' worth of reading material.

[locolorenzo22, BSN, RN]

Personally, I need a shot of caffine about 3.5 hrs into shift....then I also try to eat before I get to work, and have dinner about 6-7 hrs into shift. Honestly, the only time that is hard for me is the last hour....During that time (I'm a tech), I write report, go check on stock supplies in the break room, make coffee for the day shift, double check shift tasks, check all my patients to make sure nobody needs anything and (they're all breathing!), change any incontinent people, and answer lights. The nurses are usually dealing with lab results, shift change, meds, assignment, etc......

If you get tired, get up, walk around, talk to someone to keep you awake....etc. You'll find a groove.