Unless they opt to work more than 40 hours per week or 80 hours every two weeks, most full-time nurses are only assigned to work 40 hours per week or 80 hours every two weeks. As a nurse, you'll notice that there are plenty of opportunities for overtime. This, too, is dependent on your workplace and what your boss or firm permits. As long as you are mentally and physically well, you could probably work as much as you desire. Working overtime, on the other hand, is not always worth the extra pay as a nurse.