Working Fulltime Nights While in School

[AnAppleADay77]

I am starting a position where I will be working full time nights (3 12s; 1900-0730). I am currently in nursing school full time as well...

I haven't started yet, but my plan is first part of the week will be devoted to school and the second devoted to work.

Does anyone have any suggestions? I have been A/B student so far, but that was with a lot of free time... I'm nervous about having enough time for care plans and studying, but I'm more nervous about the flip-flopping between days and nights. I am a night person, so nights per se aren't worrisome, but like I said, the flip-flopping... Ugh.

Hoping to hear from others who've had similar schedules and tips for surviving (already have dyphenhydramine, blackout curtains, and a white noise machine! :))

[caliotter3]

I worked full time nights and then commuted an hour and a half to school, but did eight hour shifts. Even at that, I found myself falling asleep at the wheel. Be very, very careful.

[Shjnsn]

I have a similar schedule of working 6 12 hour night shifts in a row and attending school full time with an hour and a half drive each way. I too am a night person, so that's not an issue for me either. I also have a family so I have to incorporate all of their things as well. My suggestion is to plan and schedule your weeks. I try to stay ahead of assignments and get as much done on my days off homework wise as I can. While it's NOT easy by any stretch..it can be done. Make sure when it's time to sleep, don't waste time watching tv, facebook, etc. make the most of your time. I also had to set some limits meaning that I had to not attend some family things.

With this method I am able to maintain a 4.0 average as well as be an active part of our student council and student nurses association. If you plan and stick with it, I believe you can be successful as well!! Good luck!