What helps you sleep after night shift?

[Emma_H]

I often struggle sleeping the day post night shift. I often have to take half of a sleeping pill to get at least 4 hours.

[Lennonninja, MSN, APRN, NP]

I have a program on my Kindle Fire and my iPhone that sounds like rain falling, it's wonderful. 25mg of Benadryl only if I'm really desperate because it makes me feel really hungover.

[turnforthenurse, MSN, NP]

Get some blackout curtains if you can, and if not, get an eye mask to help block out the light.

I'm usually starving at the end of my shift (unless I eat my "lunch" at 0500-0600) so I'll usually eat something small before going to bed. Wear sunglasses the moment you step outside because the light suppresses melatonin secretion, making it harder for you to fall asleep once you get home. I also make sure I pee before going to bed so I don't wake up having to and possibly disrupting my sleep.

Keep the room cool. Turn on a fan for some white noise. Keep your phone on silent. Tell your family/loved ones/friends of your schedule and emphasize that their 1pm is your 1am.

I usually have no problem falling asleep after a shift.

[MunoRN, RN]

I take melatonin about 3 nights/week, although my best sleep occurs during my stretch on.

[Multicollinearity, BSN, RN]

I take nothing but melatonin. I find a dark room with black out curtains and a consistent schedule means I can sleep 8 hours during the day without any trouble. The hard part is the consistent schedule.

[mortalol]

LOL, every time i read these types of threads i have trouble sleeping afterwards...

[Salisburysteak, BSN, RN]

Have worked nights for 2 years and I've never had to take anything. From day 1 I've been able to sleep from 0800-1600! If you're only getting 4 hours a day something's wrong!

I have never haf a problem sleeping either. Been working nights on & off for 20 years. I actually prefer nights anyways!