Overnight Call Essentials: Pack Like an Olympian for Your Long Shift

So, you’ve got an overnight call coming up, and you're wondering how to survive the marathon that is a night shift without losing your mind (or your patience). Well, you’re in luck! I’m here to share some top-notch packing tips that will help you sail through those long hours with ease. Think of it like prepping for an Olympic event—except instead of gold medals, we’re aiming for sanity and a solid performance in patient care.

Unpreparedness and Its Consequences

Let’s be real. An unprepared shift is a nightmare. You’re running on empty, relying on vending machine snacks, and dealing with a constant caffeine buzz that makes you jittery. This is not the way to go, folks! Just like Olympians meticulously prepare for their training sessions, we need to prep for our overnight calls. It’s all about setting yourself up for success and showing up like the healthcare rockstar you are.

 My Unforgettable Unprepared Shift

I remember one of my first overnight calls. I thought, “I’ll wing it.” Big mistake. I ended up scavenging for food like a raccoon at midnight, sipping on what was probably my fifth cup of bad coffee, and struggling to stay awake during rounds. Not my finest hour. From that day on, I swore to always be prepared. And now, I’m here to make sure you don’t make the same rookie mistake.

The Packing List: Essentials for an Overnight Call

Here’s the ultimate packing checklist for your overnight call. Think of it as your survival kit—because let’s face it, we’re all surviving out here!

1. Sleep Essentials:

   • Blanket: Hospitals are cold. A cozy blanket can be a lifesaver.
   • Travel Pillow: Because those office chairs are not meant for napping.
   • Eye Mask & Earplugs: Block out the light and noise for some quality rest, even if it’s just a power nap.
   • Essential Oils: A little dab of something familiar (eucalyptus or lavender are great picks) can make it much easier to sleep when you get the chance. 

2. Food and Drink:

   • Non-Perishable Meals: Think of healthy, ready-to-eat options like wraps or salads. Avoid the temptation of junk food.
   • Healthy Snacks: Nuts, fruit, and protein bars to keep your energy levels stable.
   • Treats in Moderation: Plan your meals and snacks including a little treat now and then (chocolate is my favorite!!)
   • Water Bottle: Stay hydrated. Add some herbal tea bags for a soothing drink option. I like a collapsible one so that I always have it nearby. 
   • Limit Caffeine: Herbal teas can be a great alternative to that tenth cup of coffee. Remember, too much caffeine can make you jittery.

3. Clothing:

   • Spare Scrubs: For those unexpected spills and emergencies.
   • Comfortable Shoes: Your feet will thank you.
   • Warm Layers: Hospitals can get chilly, and you’ll appreciate having a warm hoodie or sweater.
   • Fanny Pack: This one may be controversial, but having extra space to carry your phones, pens, and snacks notes is fan-tastic (see what I did there)

4. Personal Care:

   • Toothbrush & Toothpaste: Freshen up after meals or naps.
   • Deodorant: A must-have for feeling fresh.
   • Face Wipes: Great for a quick refresh when you’re feeling grimy.
   • Lip Balm & Hand Cream: Keep your lips and hands from getting dry and cracked.
   • Eye drops: Hospital air is so dry, moisturizing eye drops are a must. 
   • Nasal saline spray: That dry hospital air also does a number on your nasal passages. Unless you like nosebleeds, don't forget to moisturize in there too!
   •  

5. Healthcare Tools:

   • Penlight: For those middle-of-the-night checks.
   • Stethoscope: Obviously.
   • Notepad: For jotting down quick notes or patient information.

6. Movement and Tech Breaks Plan:

   • Scheduled Breaks: Plan short, regular breaks to stretch and move around. Think of it like how athletes schedule rest and recovery periods.
   • Tech Breaks: Step away from screens periodically to avoid eye strain and mental fatigue. Read a book or chat with a colleague instead.
   • A notebook: Get everything out of your brain and down on paper. 24hours is a long time to go without attending to any of our personal affairs. Write all that stuff down so you aren't anxious you are forgetting something. This way you can come back to it all after your post-call nap. 

Actionable Tips: Stay Organized

Now that you’ve got your packing list, let’s talk organization. Here are some tips to make sure you’ve got everything you need:

• Pack the Night Before: Don’t leave it until the last minute. Pack your bag the night before your shift to avoid forgetting anything important.
• Use a Dedicated Bag: Keep a specific bag for overnight calls, stocked with essentials, so you’re always ready to go.
• Keep a Backup Kit: Consider keeping an extra set of essentials in your locker or car, just in case. Just remember not to leave your chocolate in the car in the summer. 
• Plan for your nutrition and movement: Grab our hour-by-hour nutrition and movement plan. Download here.  We have done some of the planning for you. This guide includes what to eat, when to eat, when to take movement breaks, and what to do during those breaks. I never like to be prescriptive, but having a starting place really helps. 

 You’ve Got This!

Remember, being prepared isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength and professionalism. Taking care of your personal needs allows you to perform at your best and provide top-notch care for your patients. So, pack like an Olympian and show up ready to conquer that overnight call.

Share Your Tips

Now it’s your turn! What are your must-have items for an overnight call? Share your packing tips and break schedules in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow me over at Instagram for more healthcare tips and tricks. Together, we can make those night shifts a little more manageable—and maybe even a little fun. I actually love the quiet of a hospital at night (maybe not in the ER!) Night shift staff usually have a camraderie and bond in a way that makes me remember why I went into medicine in the first place. It can be a magically place if you avoid the sugar crash and caffeine rush and allow yourself to see the specialness. 

Stay strong, stay prepared, and remember—you’re a healthcare rockstar!