Table of Contents
Should I sleep before or after night shift?
Take a nap before your shift to reduce sleepiness when you’re at work. If you’re a natural early bird, try a long nap for up to 3 hours to reduce your sleep debt. If you’re a night owl, you’ll find it more difficult to sleep in the afternoon but try at least a 15-20 minute nap before you get ready for work.
How much sleep should I get after night shift?
The longer you delay going to bed, the more awake you are likely to become. Try to set aside a block of 7–9 hours to dedicate to sleep after a night shift. Have something to eat and drink before you go to bed.
How can I get better sleep on a night shift?
These tips can help you get good sleep:
- Try not to work a number of night shifts in a row.
- Avoid frequently rotating shifts.
- Try to avoid long commutes that take time away from sleeping.
- Keep your workplace brightly lighted to promote alertness.
- Limit caffeine.
How do shift workers get better sleep?
How long does it take to adjust to night shift?
It takes about 10 days for the body to adjust to night shift work. However, it is common for night shift workers to revert to daytime routines for a day or two during days off, which tends to make the circadian rhythm unstable. The amount of hours (8-hour versus 12-hour shifts) is also controversial.
Do some people prefer night shift?
The night shift has its challenges, but many people love it “Some people are reluctant to take on night shift work because it’s so different than anything they’ve ever done,” says Maloney, “but the people who do work the night shift tend to want to stay there — there is a culture and a camaraderie to it.”
What is the minimum hours you can sleep?
How many hours of sleep are enough for good health?
| Age group | Recommended amount of sleep |
|---|---|
| 3 to 5 years | 10 to 13 hours per 24 hours, including naps |
| 6 to 12 years | 9 to 12 hours per 24 hours |
| 13 to 18 years | 8 to 10 hours per 24 hours |
| Adults | 7 or more hours a night |
How do I survive my first night shift?
Tips for staying awake and alert during your shift
- Nap. Take a 30 minute nap before your shift begins and, if possible, try to get in a few 10-20 minute naps throughout the night.
- Eat small portions throughout the shift.
- Keep moving.
- Chat with your co-workers.
- Be careful with your caffeine intake.