Let’s be real, many of us are drawn to healthcare with big hearts and even bigger dreams. We want to make a difference. And for a lot of us, that means becoming a nurse.

But while the rewards are many, so are the challenges, and one of the biggest culprits behind nurse burnout? Those incredibly long shifts.

Just How Long Is Too Long?

If you're in nursing or planning to join, you’ve probably heard about the infamous 12-hour shift. It’s pretty common. But in many places, shifts stretch even further, some up to 16 hours, and in extreme cases, 24-hour double shifts.

Let’s be clear: not every nurse works marathon shifts every day. The length of your shift depends on your role, your workplace, and your patient load. Still, those long hours can be both physically and emotionally draining.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

🕒 12-hour shifts: Standard in many hospitals. Still tough, especially when juggling family or personal responsibilities.
🕓 16-hour shifts: These are brutal. Mental fog and physical exhaustion often follow.
🕔 24-hour shifts: Yep, they exist. Often called "double shifts," they can seriously affect your body, your focus, and your well-being.

What’s the Cost of These Long Hours?

It’s not just about being tired. Long shifts can wear you down in ways that go beyond fatigue and even impact patient safety.

Here’s what many nurses experience when working extended hours regularly:

• Burnout: Emotional exhaustion, fatigue, and a sense of detachment from your work.

• Low job satisfaction: Endless shifts make some nurses wonder if it’s all worth it. Many end up leaving the profession.

• Increased risk of errors: Let’s be honest, when you're running on empty, mistakes happen. And in healthcare, even small errors can have serious consequences.

So, What’s the Way Forward?

We can do better, for nurses and for patients. Healthcare systems need to take burnout seriously and prioritize staff well-being.

That means:

✔️ Setting realistic, humane shift lengths
✔️ Providing mental health support and check-ins
✔️ Creating a workplace culture that values nurses as people, not just productivity machines

Need Support?

If you're feeling the pressure, you're not alone. We’ve pulled together resources to help you navigate these challenges in the Nurselytic Library, from self-care guides to practical tools that support your mental and physical health.

Final Thoughts

Nursing is a calling, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of your own health and happiness. These long shifts aren’t just exhausting; they’re unsustainable.

By recognizing the impact of burnout and advocating for change, we can help build a healthier, more balanced future in nursing.

Because taking care of others starts with taking care of yourself.