You name it, they have it! A nurse’s hours generally run your typical “shift” schedule, as a factory does. There is the 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. shift, the 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. shift, and the 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. shift, give or take 30 minutes. However, as we have advanced through the years the choices have become numerous. There are now options in some places to work three, 12-hour shifts and receive full-time pay and benefits. There is also the choice to work weekends only or weekdays only. You may even be able to work just holidays. Of course, all of these will vary from place to place.
On most of my jobs I worked the typical 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. shift. This was great for me because being done by 3 p.m. meant more time in the afternoon and evening hours. Getting to work on the day shift was a good thing as well, as the day shift was the one that was the most sought after. Another job that I had in nursing I worked the nighttime shift, but with a twist. Since I had to be home by 6 a.m. I worked from 11 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. My employer at that time was kind enough to work with me and accept my hours as such.
My most recent employer is quite flexible with scheduling if it is needed, which I appreciate so much. Working early in the morning and being able to leave in the early afternoon allows me the diversity of coming home to my second job, which is writing and getting the needed time to complete my writing obligations.
In nursing I believe that you will find great adaptability in scheduling. Most employers are happy to have you and I believe that you will find that they will work with you on it. As long as your requests are reasonably made and advance notice is given you will find that it will not be too difficult to find the schedule that is right for you and your situation.
Angel Lynn writes in weight loss, single parenting, and health