I've been reading this web site for a couple of months and also work the 12's, that is all that is available where I work.
I and others seem pretty tired at the end of 3 12 hour shifts! I realize you get 4 off if one prefers, but there is that day of recovery that most seem to need.
I know also that those who work NOC's, it's so much easier.
But where in the world did this 12 hour concept come from, for a job that is very HARD.
I feel that with travel time, I basically am non existant on the days I work. I used to do 4 8 hour days and felt better, I'd have the late afternoon and evening to have a life.
I think part of it came out of continuity of care for patients also. You have to agree that people get better care when there may be only 2 nurses caring for them over a 24 hour period than if 3 or 4 people are taking care of them.
I think part of it came out of continuity of care for patients also. You have to agree that people get better care when there may be only 2 nurses caring for them over a 24 hour period than if 3 or 4 people are taking care of them.
Thats kind of what I was thinking much less disorganization from shift changes. I agree with the thought that 8 hours exhaust me so adding another 4 on really isn't a huge deal most of the time. It would be nice for people to have the option though because I know 12s aren't for everyone.
Specializes in med/Surg Tele, ER and HH visiting RN.
Hi,
My name is Sherry, first time on the board. I work the 12 hour night shifts (7p-7a) in the emergency dept. here in the FingerLakes area in New York. I just prefer working 3 days a week compared to 5-8hour shifts. I have to admit that 3 in a row is tough, my shifts don't always fall like that, usually 2 on and 2 off 1 on. Where the 12's come from, I have no idea.
:monkeydance:
I'm a hairdresser also(for 30 yrs) and I own a shop, so these shifts enable me to still do my regular customers on Fri. & Sats. and then I work an extra day or two at the shop to do whatever...you see I also have a Heat Transfer Press machine, where I can print up teeshirts, canvas bags, mouse pads things in this line.
In my "Spare" time I assist with autopsies, I enuculate eyes and do hair at Funeral Homes.
I also have a 14 yo son(going on 40) who is the idol of my eyes,who I love to spend time with. But he's at that age, where he like to spend the time, 4 wheeling, going to the movies, races and so on with his buddies, which is great for him, we get our times in together.
I'd like to thank Allnurses for wishing me a :hbsmiley: , I am as old as the year I was born. I'd like to say I was born in '35, but in REALITY the numbers are reversed. Oh well, I don't feel my age, and alot of people say that I don't look my age, my son says, "You don't look that old"..wasn't he sweet!
That's about it for now, Everone..have a great day!
meownsmile, BSN, RN
2,532 Posts
I think part of it came out of continuity of care for patients also. You have to agree that people get better care when there may be only 2 nurses caring for them over a 24 hour period than if 3 or 4 people are taking care of them.