Graveyard_Pioneer (Anonymous)
The Unseen Cost
I just wrapped up my fifth shift in a row. I'm beat. I'm so tired I can barely keep my eyes open. I'm missing out on everything. My kid's concert, my friends' get-together. Even just random, mundane stuff like laundry and grocery shopping. Is it normal? Am I alone in this? Or is sacrifice just the name of the game in nursing?
You're definitely not alone. I've missed my fair share of family time too. It's tough, but it's also part of the job, sadly.
Yeah, it's rough. But it's also personal choice. I've learned to say no to extra shifts, even when the department's short-staffed. It's not easy, but it's helped.
I get it, but have you tried arranging your shifts better? Or maybe request flexible hours? Might help you balance things.