How to Survive Night Shifts as a Resident

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Source: MedPage Today

Original: https://www.medpagetoday.com/opinion/ask-the-pd/119629...

Published: Wed, 28 Jan 2026 14:18:31 -0500

Residents should sleep as long as possible before the night shift, and a short afternoon nap is recommended to supplement sleep. During your shift, it's important to eat whole meals at regular intervals, drink coffee at the beginning instead of at the end, and stay hydrated with water. As a snack, protein and fibrous foods such as nuts, eggs or vegetables serve to maintain energy. Comfortable clothing is recommended, including compression stockings for leg swelling and layering for the cold in the hospital. Use blackout curtains, a sleep mask, earplugs, and a noise-blocking fan to sleep after your shift. Some residents sleep 1-2 hours or up to 3-4 hours during quiet night shifts, others avoid sleep in order to relax at home in the morning. Pack equipment such as a pillow, blanket and a portable night light to the call room for better rest. A healthy diet includes fruits, nuts, and yogurt, along with light physical activity to support circadian rhythms.[1][2][5]