#sleep "Sure I only get 6 hours of sleep, but that's all I need" Is this you? It's definitely been me. I do track my sleep with my FitBit but, if I get over six hours I'm usually happy with that. Apparently - I'm wrong. Only about 0.01% of individuals need 6 or less hours of sleep. About 20% of people believe they are one of the "rare few" who can … [Read more...]

#sleep So what's an off shift worker to do? How do you help minimize the negative effects of off shift sleep issues? Good question and yes, there are some real suggestions.The most important step is to make sleep a priority not an after thought. Put you phone on do not disturb, get room darkening shades or sleep masks for your eyes that create … [Read more...]

#sleep Shift Worker Disorder (SWD) is an actual diagnosis. Of course the goal is to help you NOT get there. Reliable RN is about how to help you manage the shift aspect of work while avoiding this disorder but, if you're already there - it's time to recognize it, deal with it and find a better way to approach your work/sleep/personal time balance. … [Read more...]

#sleep Pay attention shift workers. I'm hoping to catch you before you fall asleep. Does you PCP know you're a shift worker? Do you share with your MD when you have trouble sleeping? How about when you have mood changes that scare you? How many times have you almost fell asleep driving home? Night RN's know these issues all to well - but so do … [Read more...]

Shift Work Disorder: Overview and Complications | Sleep Foundation#sleep Lets just look at the way our natural sleep works: "Circadian rhythms are largely guided by natural light and darkness. During the day, the retinas in your eyes perceive sunlight and signal the brain to release hormones like cortisol that keep you feeling alert and energized. … [Read more...]