The effects of shift work on nurses: implications for Australian hospitals

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Occupational Health
• Sleep Medicine

Background:

• Shift work is common in nursing.
• Existing research indicates negative consequences of shift work.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing body of research on the effects of shift work on nurses.
• To identify gaps in the current literature.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of Australian and international research.
• Analysis of studies focusing on shift work in the nursing profession.

Main Results:

• There is a lack of substantial research on shift work in nursing, with only three major overseas studies and none in Australia.
• Negative physiological, psychological, and social consequences of shift work are indicated but not extensively studied in nurses.

Conclusions:

• The current body of evidence is insufficient to recommend specific shift or roster systems for nurses.
• Further empirical research is critically needed to understand and mitigate the impacts of shift work on nursing staff.