{"id":52751,"date":"2022-07-21T09:30:20","date_gmt":"2022-07-21T13:30:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=52751"},"modified":"2025-08-22T10:31:34","modified_gmt":"2025-08-22T14:31:34","slug":"how-to-survive-a-12-hour-pharmacy-shift","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/how-to-survive-a-12-hour-pharmacy-shift\/","title":{"rendered":"How to survive (and thrive) on a long pharmacy shift"},"content":{"rendered":"

Fatigue is something that most pharmacists have dealt with at some point in their careers. Pharmacist work schedules can be unpredictable, especially during the start of a new job at a hospital or community pharmacy. Pharmacy residents in particular know what it\u2019s like to be put on a long shift. In many cases, pharmacists and even pharmacy technicians may be subject to work long shifts.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The pharmacist and pharmacy technician work schedule can include long shifts that involve dealing with patients, verifying patient prescriptions, and managing prescription issues with providers or health insurance companies.When working 12 hours a day, it\u2019s important that pharmacists and pharmacy technicians stay sharp and under control. As they usually work alone for parts of these shifts, pharmacists can be put under a lot of pressure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

7 tips for how to survive a 12-hour shift<\/span><\/h2>\n

Whether it be a long work day in retail or an entire night shift at the hospital, here are some strategies and tips to help you get through it.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Stay hydrated<\/span><\/h3>\n

Staying hydrated is key for getting through a long work day. Even mild dehydration can cause headaches, weakness, and fatigue. Try to keep water near you at all times so you can drink water consistently throughout your shift. Sipping water at least every hour can help boost your energy during a long shift. <\/span>
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\n<\/span>RELATED: <\/b>7 health benefits of drinking water<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

2. Dress comfortably<\/span><\/h3>\n

Dress as comfortably as you can for a long shift (as permitted by the dress code in your pharmacy). One major aspect of being comfortable during a long shift is to wear the right shoes, especially if you\u2019ll be standing for hours. Wear high-quality, lightweight sneakers that are form-fitted and provide plenty of support. During long night shifts, having a lightweight, warm jacket or sweater can help you stay comfortable.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n