tips on how to survive 12 hr shifts.

[arabella205]

HI, I am starting my first nursing job on 12 hr shifts. What do you guys do to keep your energy level within that 12 hr period. any special diet/vitamins, exercise etc that you do?. I am just a little nervous that I won't be able to keep up that long and I've never done any 12 hr shifts before. Anyone? thanks

[RochesterRN-BSN, BSN, RN]

Godd shoes and even try changing shoes half way through your shift......a good pair of sneakers....then something like Dansko's----just two pairs that are both comfy but fit very differently. A nurse I worked with that worked travel.... a lot of doubles!! 16-17 hours.......she was the one who told me the change your shoes trick. And bring things to snack on through out the shift. Sit when you can--charting, etc. and space out tasks that are straining on the back...so you do end up with like 4-5 dressing changes and end up doing then all in a row.

Take your breaks when you can and if possible get off the unit. Even outside to get some fresh air.

[K os]

I am a student and just started clinicals working two 12's in a row. It's tough but the time does fly. I agree with everyone else, hydrate, snacks, shoes, arch supports and compression stockings. You can get them at a med supply store w/o prescription. It will be the best $25 you have ever spent. Beware, they are sized by shoe size, not by calf size etc. Get an experienced salesperson to help you bc you usually cannot return them if they do not fit. More than anything, the sox have saved me.

[bjaeram]

I love working 12's. It really doesn't seem that much longer then an eight. You don't have to get dressed and drive to work everyday. You are already there so saving the commute saves time.

I don't have any suggestions that others haven't said. Give it a try and I think you'll like it. You will love the extra days off.