8-HOUR SHIFTS
1. Why some nurses love 8s
- Shorter daysMore energy left after work
- Easier to keep a daily routineGym, school pickup, dinner
- But more days at workUsually 5 shifts a week for full time
12-HOUR SHIFTS
2. Why some nurses love 12s
- Fewer days at workOften 3 shifts a week for full time
- Stretches of days offGreat for trips and big projects
- Fewer handoffs per patientFewer shift changes per day
THE TRADE-OFFS
3. What 12s can cost you
- Long days add upYour body feels hour 11
- Back-to-back 12s are hardRecovery days matter
- Overtime on top gets heavyKnow your limits
YOUR LIFE
4. Pick the one that fits your life
- Kids or school?8s can fit a daily routine
- Love long breaks?12s give you more days off
- Night shift?Think about how you sleep
BEFORE YOU SWITCH
5. Ask these first
- Does the unit offer both, or just one?
- How does it change my pay and benefits?
- What's the weekend and holiday rotation?
- Check your unit's policy or union contract
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