To prepare for a long shift, get 7-8 hours of quality sleep, eat a nutritious diet to fuel your body and prevent illness, and pack energy-packed snacks like nuts or granola bars. It's also important to wear supportive shoes, lift with your knees to protect your back, and wear compression socks to prevent fatigue and swelling.

1. Best Ways to Prepare
for That Upcoming
Long Shift

2. Power through to survive
and thrive on your next long
shift with this advice.

3. Get 7-8 Hours of Quality Sleep

4. Consider using a sleep mask –
especially if you must sleep
during the day.

5. Eat a Nutritious Diet

6. Eat to fuel Your body to prevent
colds and keep you energized
throughout your shift.

7. Bring an Energy-Packed Snack

8. Don’t let your energy plummet because
you can’t take a break from the unit. Pack
snacks like raw nuts, seeds, raisins or a
high-quality granola bar.

9. Consider Your Shoes

10. Quality, supportive shoes are
essential. Switching shoes mid-shift
can give your feet new life.

11. Lift with Your Knees and Protect
Your Back

12. Use proper lifting techniques and
stretch to loosen tight muscles
and reduce your risk of injury.

13. Wear Compression Socks

14. Prevent fatigue, swelling, reduce
the risk of varicose veins and keep
your legs energized.

15. Change Your Environment

16. When you get a break, leave the
unit. Read a book, talk to friends
or walk outside.

17. Work with a per diem nurse
staffing company that cares
about your career and
your health