Working nights can be daunting, especially as part of a placement. Preparing well can help protect your mind, body and circadian rhythm before, during and after your shift

As nursing students, each time we start a new clinical placement we are expected to quickly master new protocols and procedures, get to know new colleagues and patients, and familiarise ourselves with new – often highly stressful – clinical environments.

This can be emotionally challenging and physically exhausting, with irregular shift patterns, particularly night shifts, often adding to the stress.

Potential health and well-being issues when working shifts

Shift work in healthcare is necessary so that we can provide round-the-clock care for patients, and while exposure to a range of shift