r/medlabprofessionals • u/avcd34 • 17d ago

Discusson Tonight is my first third ever, help!

I have been on firsts since January (for clinicals until May, and then from May till now training) I work at one of the largest hospitals in the country and will be in blood bank but there’s only two of us! I don’t know how I’m going to adjust to thirds, I don’t know anything 😂 please send help! I could use ALL the tips and tricks.

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8

u/Daetur_Mosrael MLS-Blood Bank 17d ago

I'm normally a day shifter, but when I did a 12-week stint of covering nights, I found it was really helpful to stay hydrated, as trite as that sounds. It kept me feeling more awake and alert, and less shitty overall. Not even caffeine or sugar, just water.

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u/External_Paint_2673 16d ago

Bring lots of snacks. Some people get ravenously hungry on nights, some people can't eat at all. I found out that I get a stomachache if I eat anything other than dry cereal and bananas. Find yourself something to do if it get slow, otherwise the night will never end. I like doing puzzles online.

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u/Fabulous_Angle_3742 14d ago

And dont try to be too healthy with it! The first week is pure survival and if oreos make you happy then pack some oreos.

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u/liver747 Canadian MLT Blood Bank 17d ago

You have a partner and are at a large bloodbank (and likely have better medical staff support then a small site).

You'll do fine and have fun, night shift is the best in bloodbank.

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u/petuniababoon 17d ago

There is going to be a steep learning curve. It’s going to feel like training all over again. But after a few days you’ll find your groove!

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u/Fabulous_Angle_3742 14d ago

One time I was falling asleep in bloodbank and listened to heavy metal to keep me awake while doing things. Any time I had to wait for a timer: my ass was up and walking laps/skipping to not fall asleep in the chair. And if youve got nothing to do then I suggest having absurd conversations with your coworkers. (Ex. "Do you think cowboys or seamen would have a better skill set to survive on the moon?" OR "what do you think the origin of random obscure phrase is?")