What are 12-Hour Nursing Shifts Like?

Summary

In this video, Sarah, a registered nurse, shares her experience working 12-hour shifts in a hospital setting. She highlights the structure of 12-hour shifts, including the rotation of weekends and holidays, and explains the advantages, such as more time off and consistent patient care. However, Sarah also discusses the challenges, including physical fatigue, difficulty taking breaks, and the exhaustion after long shifts. She offers tips for managing 12-hour shifts effectively, such as prioritizing breaks, maintaining a healthy diet, and enjoying time off to recharge. Overall, Sarah provides a balanced perspective on the realities of working 12-hour shifts in nursing.

Takeaways

• 😀 12-hour shifts are common in hospital settings, typically 7 AM to 7 PM or 7 PM to 7 AM.
• 😀 Nurses usually work three 12-hour shifts per week, with some facilities alternating 3 and 4-day schedules to meet full-time hours.
• 😀 Working 12-hour shifts provides more time off, as nurses only work three days a week, leaving them with four days off.
• 😀 Patient care consistency is improved with 12-hour shifts, as patients are cared for by fewer caregivers throughout the day.
• 😀 Nurses save on gas and lunch expenses by working fewer days, reducing commuting and meal costs.
• 😀 Physical strain from long shifts can lead to aching feet, back pain, and varicose veins, but compression stockings and back braces can help.
• 😀 Breaks are often difficult to take due to the demanding nature of nursing, but it's crucial to take them whenever possible to avoid burnout.
• 😀 After long shifts, nurses often feel too tired to engage with family or do errands, highlighting the need for recovery time.
• 😀 Some nurses are scheduled for multiple consecutive 12-hour shifts, which can lead to exhaustion and take longer to recover from.
• 😀 Tips for managing 12-hour shifts include taking breaks, eating healthy snacks, spacing out workdays, and enjoying time off to recharge.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video?

The video discusses the pros and cons of working 12-hour shifts as a nurse, including the work schedule, advantages, disadvantages, and tips for managing long shifts.

Why was the speaker initially scared of 12-hour shifts?

The speaker was initially scared because she had only worked traditional Monday through Friday 8-9 hour shifts, and she couldn't imagine working from 7 AM to 7 PM.

How does the speaker feel about 12-hour shifts after experiencing them?

After working 12-hour shifts, the speaker found them to be manageable and prefers them over 8-9 hour shifts, appreciating having more time off during the week.

Do all nurses work 12-hour shifts?

No, not all nurses work 12-hour shifts. Nurses in roles such as school nurses, case managers, and those working in testing or surgery centers typically work shorter shifts.

How many 12-hour shifts does a nurse typically work in a week?

A nurse typically works 3 12-hour shifts a week, though some facilities may require 4 shifts one week and 3 the next to meet full-time hours.

How do weekend rotations work for 12-hour shifts?

Weekend rotations typically require nurses to work at least two weekends a month, with shifts rotating every other weekend. Part-time nurses might only work one weekend a month.

What are some benefits of working 12-hour shifts?

Benefits include having more days off (usually 4 days), consistency of care for patients with fewer caregivers per day, and savings on gas and lunch money due to working fewer days each week.

What are the disadvantages of working 12-hour shifts?

Disadvantages include physical strain on the body, such as sore feet and back, not always getting breaks, and the exhaustion that makes it hard to engage in activities outside of work.

How can nurses alleviate the physical strain of 12-hour shifts?

Nurses can wear compression stockings to improve blood flow and prevent leg fatigue, and use back braces to protect their backs. Additionally, taking regular breaks when possible can help manage the strain.

What is one important tip for surviving long 12-hour shifts?

One important tip is to take breaks when possible, even if it's just a short rest away from the patient area to recharge. Proper snacks and hydration are also crucial for maintaining energy levels throughout the shift.