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Assessing the functional performance of post-call hospital doctors using a Nintendo Wii
Irish Medical Journal
|November 25, 2011
Summary
This study found that extended work hours for Non-Consultant Hospital Doctors (NCHDs) did not significantly impact their motor function. Most doctors reported adequate sleep, suggesting negligible effects on medical staff motor skills.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Occupational health
- Neurology
Background:
- Non-Consultant Hospital Doctors (NCHDs) in Ireland face extended work hours.
- Concerns exist regarding the impact of these long hours on NCHD performance and patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of on-call shifts on the motor function of NCHDs.
- To assess the relationship between sleep duration and motor skills in NCHDs.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a Nintendo Wii to assess motor function in NCHDs before and after on-call shifts.
- Collected data from 72 NCHDs, with a 62.5% follow-up rate.
- Analyzed data using SPSS, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant difference was found in motor assessment scores pre- and post-call.
- The majority of participants (75.5%) reported sleeping four or more hours during their on-call shift.
- On-call duty permitted more sleep than anticipated, with a negligible effect on motor skills.
Conclusions:
- On-call duty for NCHDs in Ireland does not appear to significantly impair motor function.
- Adequate sleep duration during on-call shifts may mitigate potential negative effects on motor skills.
- Further research could explore other cognitive functions and long-term impacts.
