Many nurses experience decreased energy and alertness halfway through their shift, in part due to the body's natural circadian rhythm, according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution.
Here are four strategies nurses can use to combat the mid-shift slump, as detailed by AJC:
1. Take time to connect with peers. Regina Duncan, BSN, RN, a unit nurse manager at Decatur, Ga.-based DeKalb Medical, holds a 15-minute break every Wednesday at 3 p.m. for nurses on the unit to drink coffee and talk about their personal lives.
"No work talk is allowed," Ms. Duncan told AJC. "It's so important to take a break. You think you don't have time, but you're spinning around, not getting your work done if you don't."
2. Soak up some vitamin D. Nurses should try to eat lunch outside or sit near a window mid-shift, since daylight can help wake up their bodies.
3. Stay active. Going for a brisk walk or listening to upbeat music can also help nurses stay energized when the mid-shift slump hits.
4. Don't skip your break. With such busy schedules, it's easy for nurses to skip breaks. However, it's also important for nurses to take time for themselves.
"Even if it's just five minutes, step away from what you're doing, meditate, reflect or pray," said Amanda Moorhouse, a nurse practitioner in Johnson City, Tenn. "We all need a physical time out."