trouble transitioning to dayshift

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Specializes in Critical Care, Psychiatric.

I have been a nurse for 7 years now and just recently started orienting in the ICU. I am a night nurse but it is common practice for nurses orienting in ICU to do 2 months of day shift before returning to night shift. The problem is that I absolutely cannot sleep at night. I have spent most of my orientation in a daze fighting to concentrate because I am so tired due to lack of sleep. I want to explain my situation to my new manager but dont want to seem like I want special treatment. Any advice?

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Specializes in Critical Care.

How much longer do you have to be on days? Will you get any night orientation? Is there a night supervisor you can address your concerns to?

I feel like anyone who has worked long term nights would at least take your situation into consideration, knowing how hard it can be to adapt back to a normal schedule.

Most places are glad to find dedicated night people.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Psychiatric.

I have 6 weeks left which seem like an eternity at this point. I would get 2 nights of orientation on night shift. At this point, I think I need to just talk to my managet and explain my situation and see if I can complete the reminder of my orientation on nights.

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Specializes in Critical Care.

I would. Can't hurt to ask.

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