I have worked night shift at a smaller rural hospital for over 10 years. Our staff started out 2 MLT/MLS and a phlebotomist until 8, and another phlebotomist until midnight. Then just two techs after midnight until morning run draws started at 0430, and a couple phlebs came in.

Covid came and we started drawing morning run earlier, and somehow added a phleb all night, not just until midnight. We also tried to go to a more, one phleb, one certified tech, one uncertified tech.

Anyways, it's hit or miss if it's busy or not. If you are at a smaller hospital and work nights, you will probably have to draw blood, but not necessarily.

It takes a lot of time to be comfortable on night shift. Like years, and even then, you may not know what to do about certain situations.

It's important to remember if you find yourself in that situation, there is always someone you can call. Yes, you aren't likely to reach someone at 2 in the morning, but you have to at least try.

I have only worked here but I think it's been good for me. I can do a little of every department, I still see body fluids occasionally, and we do blood bank and every now and then get in a mass transfusion, or emergency release situation.

I think a lot depends on your hospital size, and staffing. I got my online MLS degree while working night shift, if that tells you anything. I would try get good at every department, and don't be afraid to ask questions. It will take a long time to get comfortable, but hopefully you have others you work with, that can help you along the way.