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Can nurses be employed in 12-hour shift systems?
T Makowiec-Dabrowska1, P Krawczyk-Adamus, E Sprusińska
1Department of Work Physiology and Ergonomics, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lódź, Poland. impx@porta.imp.lodz.pl
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics : JOSE
|November 18, 2000
Summary
Twelve-hour (12-hr) shifts for nurses present a lower physical workload but increased mental load compared to 8-hr shifts. Findings suggest no major contraindications for 12-hr nursing shifts.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Nursing Studies
- Workforce Management
Background:
- Nurses frequently work 12-hour shifts, necessitating an evaluation of the associated workload.
- Understanding the impact of shift length on nurse well-being is crucial for healthcare systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the physical workload, work stress, and after-work activities of nurses on 8-hour versus 12-hour shifts.
- To determine if 12-hour shifts pose an excessive burden on nursing staff.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire survey was administered to nurses working under different shift systems.
- Comparative analysis of data from 169 nurses on 8-hour shifts and 536 nurses on 12-hour shifts.
Main Results:
- The 12-hour shift system was associated with a less significant physical workload but a greater mental load.
- Nurses on 12-hour shifts reported higher levels of post-work fatigue.
- However, nurses on 12-hour shifts also reported more time for leisure activities and housework.
Conclusions:
- The 12-hour shift system does not appear to present significant contraindications for nurses.
- The findings suggest a trade-off between physical and mental load, with potential benefits in after-work activities.