There are so many amazing things that we get to see and do as emergency physicians.
- We see sick, undifferentiated patients who need our help acutely.
- We have cool toys, such as ultrasounds.
- We get to do great procedures.
- We work on a shift-based schedule.
- We work in team-based fashion with fun nurses, technicians, and staff.
Question for the readers:
Let's say you just finished your shift at 6 am. Your next shift is at 6 am the next day. How do you recover from your night shift?
For me, I try to work 3-4 night shifts in a row and then try to stay up as late as possible after the last shift. Usually, I pass out at 7 pm and wake up at 5 am the next day. I'm good to go.
Other options I've heard of include:
- use of medications such as ambien
- short nap mid-day after a night shift and then getting 6 hours of sleep at night
- incorporation of rigorous exercise after your night shift