Did you know that the job of a nurse is among the most stressful you can have? No amount of overtime or effort can make up for stress and the toll it takes on your well-being.
You can switch to night shifts, though, and get a break from your treacherous routine.
The only question is, how do you enjoy your time as night shift nurses? Let’s see what you need to know.
Be Sure to Set a Schedule
Start with setting the alarm for your normal wake-up time so you can begin preparing for the shift. Also, make sure you’re properly rested. Set a time to leave for your night shift as well, so you can avoid traffic and arrive with plenty of time to settle into your routine.
Find ways to relax before and during the shift, like listening to music or reading a book. Drink plenty of water throughout the night. It’s also important to identify tactics to stay alert. Take short walks, use caffeine if needed, and find moments to nap if you can.
Finally, make sure you’re getting enough rest between shifts, so you can be at your best for eachh one. Setting a schedule and following it is the best way to ensure you’re maximizing the benefits and comfort of your night shifts.
Let Time Adjust to Your Body
This can be easiest accomplished by giving your body time to adjust. Make sure to get quality sleep during your nights off, use naps during your midday breaks and keep your normal scheduled bedtime hour even on the days you work.
Additionally, when possible, try and adjust your sleeping hours by one or two hours a day in preparation for shift changes. Keep in mind things such as hydration and daily exercise. These are essential components of good health.
Finally, employ stress management techniques to help combat fatigue and burnout. With these tips you can learn to thrive in your career as a night shift nurse by allowing your body enough time to adjust.
Ensure to Eat Healthy Foods
This is especially true as you do not get the same amount of sunlight exposure or opportunity to stock up on natural energy throughout the day. Start by having a light breakfast, such as a protein smoothie.
Before you head to work, make sure to eat something every 2-3 hours while you are there. Eat small meals such as a handful of almonds and a banana or a turkey wrap. They will help fuel you during and after your shift.
Also, try planning out your meals for the week so that you can buy the ingredients. Pre-make them in order to save time. Having healthy snacks handy, such as yogurt, berries, and apples, can help combat any cravings for processed foods.
Remember, eating processed foods can deplete your energy quickly. Follow these tips to ensure that you are getting the nutrition you need to fully benefit from, and enjoy, your night shift nursing job.
Find a Comfortable Sleeping Area
Make sure the sleeping area is completely dark and void of any noise or light. You can wear earplugs to reduce any other noise. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting, breathable clothing for overnight shifts.
Additionally, make sure your sleeping area is a safe space with a locked door. Finally, take little sips of caffeinated beverages to keep you awake during shifts but avoid drinking sugary drinks before sleeping or oversleeping.
Consider Wearing Scrub Outerwears
Scrub outerwears come in a variety of sizes. That’s why it is important to find those that properly fit each nurses body type. Doing this will help you have the maximum comfort. Overnight shift nurses should look for scrubs made of material that will keep them comfortable.
Choose breathable materials, such as cotton-blend fabrics. They can help keep nurses cool if their shifts take place during the warmer time of the year. Additionally, nurses should also look for men or womens scrub outerwear with stretchy waistbands.
Ensure that it has plenty of pockets for extra storage. Lastly, nurses should make sure to choose vibrant colors and fun patterns for their scrubs to maintain a positive attitude throughout their shifts.
Keep Your Caffeine Intake in Moderation
Too much caffeine can lead to agitation, anxiety, and restlessness. It is best to limit caffeine intake to one to two cups of coffee or tea a day. Switch to decaf at night. Nursing students can also try herbal teas before bedtime to promote relaxation.
It’s also beneficial to snack on healthy foods throughout the shift. Doing this can help you avoid the crash that comes with too much caffeine. These tips will help night shift ICU nurses stay energized and alert during the lengthy work hours, promote healthy habits, and maximize the comfort and benefits of their job.
Befriend Your Coworkers
As night shift nurses, it is important to make sure you are making the most of the benefits and comfort of having coworkers you can befriend. Take time to build relationships with the people you work with. Share any ideas or tips that could make the job easier for the whole staff.
Make sure to make yourself available for advice and help. Exchange contact information with your coworkers so you can connect with each other outside of work if needed. Invite your coworkers to grab dinner or coffee during breaks to chat.
Get to know each other better. Sometimes just taking the first step to reaching out can make it easier to open up and build relationships with your peers. Being comfortable around your coworkers will create a better work environment and make shift work more bearable.
Taking Advantage of Your Shift as Night Shift Nurses
In conclusion, night shift nurses should be able to maximize their own comfort, energy, and production during a night shift. Through proper planning, rest, and nutrition, night shift nurses can make the most of their shifts and maximize the benefits of working at night.
Follow these tips to develop and maintain a successful schedule, and any nurse can be successful during their night shift.
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