Night Shift Tips For Nursing Positions

Working the night shift as a registered nurse pays more money than those who work during the daytime. The reason is because any job that works the “graveyard” shift is more of a drain a nurse's energy. Hospitals must keep a full staff throughout the day, so nurses that need extra cash or prefer staying home during the day, select the night shift. It is different and requires high levels of endurance. Here are a few tips to help a person survive the dark night shift.

1. Make a smooth transition. If a person wants to work at night, do not just jump right in. Begin an evening shift at first, then, after the body adjusts, it is smart to try an entire night. A sudden move can disrupt an individual’s internal clock which causes premature aging or health concerns.

2. Eat before work. At night, there may be little to eat in the cafeteria. To keep energized and avoid hunger, consume a good meal before the shift begins. Bring a snack to gain energy at mid shift.

3. Wear a digital watch. It is vital to be punctual for any nursing position. A nurse is responsible for passing medicine to patients on a regular schedule. An analog watch works as well, however the bright numbers on a digital watch may keep a person more alert.

4. Do not go to sleep after work. A twelve hour shift can be draining, but everyone needs time to relax and decompress. Falling asleep right after work can train the body to fall asleep during work. When arriving home after work, read or watch television, then try to go to sleep.

5. Coordinate schedule around family. Working at the opposite times of friends and family can add a feeling of isolation to life. To keep a bit of normalcy, coordinate work schedules around them. Nursing positions will allow a person to interact with others, even when working at night. Sleep while family is working or at school and make sure to eat meals with them. It is especially important to be there for the children. On days off, spend an evening with friends.

6. Get enough sleep. As with any career, people who hold nursing positions must stay alert while they tend to patients and help doctors. It can be difficult when working night shift because the body and mind slow down at night. Sleep at least eight hours before going to work and allow enough time after waking to leave.

By: Morgan Ambrose

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At Sunrise Senior Living, we’ve devoted more than 30 years to refining our resident-centered senior care and building passionate and skilled care teams who get to know our residents. We have learned that even the little things that make our senior living communities feel like home can make a big difference in the lives of seniors. We are always looking for qualified individuals for CNA jobs.