After reading “3 Tips to Stay Mentally Alert During Long Shifts” an Everyday EMS Tips reader wrote:
“What do you suggest for crews that are running all night? How can we stay mentally alert after the 12th call? Or the 2oth hour?”
I would like your help and suggestions for this reader. I have made a conscious choice to rarely work shifts longer than 12 or 16 hours and rarely work overnight because I struggle with staying awake and safe when I am up for more than 20 hours. My other work does not lend itself to day sleeping before or after a shift so I have chosen to primarily work during the day.
If you work 24s, 48s, or even longer shifts what do you to stay awake, alert, and safe? I would like to compile your responses in a future blog post.
After you respond I suggest a quick safety nap.
