Are students allowed to undertake 12 hour shift patterns?
The student is required to work a 37.5 hour week (excluding meal breaks) unless otherwise directed by the university. They can work either core shifts over 5 days (working a 7.5 hour day) or 11.5 hour shifts (working 12.5 hours, including 60 minutes break- day or night duty), if the placement is in agreement. This is determined by the nature of the care environment and is the decision of the ward manager, who will ensure that the student is able to experience a wide range of potential learning experiences through the shift pattern adopted. Napier policy for Adult branch programme states that it is essential that 1st year students work core shifts for the first 2 weeks of the placement prior to considering 11.5 hour shifts and / or night duty. Participating in 11.5 hour shifts must be agreed by the student, the mentor and the Charge Nurse.
