Working the night shift with young children?

[leisa22]

Hello, Im a new graduate getting ready to begin working a 7 pm to 7 am shift. Im worried that I may not have much time to spend with my children since I will be working when they are sleeping and sleeping when they are awake. Of course I will have 4 days off a week but Im wondering if my internal clock will be all out of wack if I wanted to stay up during the days on my days off. Anyone working this shift have any thoughts on the subject? Does it take getting use to?

Thanks LIsa

[DHnurse]

I worked nights for 6 months while I was in school. I really couldn't handle it. After graduating, I tried it again and again I couldn't take it. I had no problems while I was at work, it was just trying to sleep during the day that was difficult. My MIL kept stopping over. She would knock lightly but my dog would hear it and begin barking. She claimed she forgot what nights I work. The day I almost took off my neighbor's head when his car alarm went off was it for me. He is such a sweetheart and I felt so bad for yelling at him. My personality was changing and I felt like I was run over by a truck all the time. Maybe it will be better for you. Good luck.