Daylight saving on night shift

WHEN

1. Clocks fall back this weekend

• Sunday, November 1 at 2 a.m.Clocks go back to 1 a.m.
• The 1 a.m. hour happens twiceYour night just got longer
• Saturday night shift = 13 hoursOn a normal 12-hour shift

Source: NIST.

WHO WORKS IT

2. Who covers the extra hour?

• Usually whoever's on Saturday nightAsk your unit now, not at 1:59
• Some units split itOr let someone leave on time
• Check your schedule this weekKnow before you clock in

THE PAY

3. Make sure you get paid for it

• Ask how your hospital pays the extra hourPolicies differ
• Check your timecard after13 hours worked, 13 hours paid
• Clock in and out exactlyLet the system catch the change

CHARTING

4. Watch the clock twice

• Two 1 a.m. hours can confuse chartingFollow your hospital's policy
• Double-check scheduled medsAround the time change
• Ask your charge nurse if unsureBetter than guessing

SURVIVE IT

5. Getting through the longest night

• Pack an extra snack
• Save some caffeine for the second 1 a.m.
• Plan your ride home for the new time
• Sleep in Sunday; you earned it