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Working night shifts affects surgeons' biological rhythm
Ilda Amirian1, Lærke T Andersen1, Jacob Rosenberg1
1Department of Surgery, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Herlev Ringvej 75, 2730 Herlev, Denmark.
American Journal of Surgery
|February 14, 2015
Summary
Night shifts disrupt surgeons' circadian rhythms, impacting sleep-wake cycles and well-being. This study highlights the physiological effects of night shifts on surgical residents.
Area of Science:
- Medical Research
- Chronobiology
- Surgical Residency
Background:
- Chronic sleep deprivation and night work negatively impact performance and safety.
- Understanding the effects on surgeons is crucial for patient and resident well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycle markers in surgeons working night shifts.
- To quantify the physiological and subjective impact of night call on surgical residents.
Main Methods:
- Prospective monitoring of surgeons over 4 days (pre-call, on-call, post-call day 1 & 2).
- Measurement of urinary melatonin metabolite and salivary cortisol to assess circadian rhythm.
- Actigraphy for sleep and activity tracking, alongside subjective scales for sleepiness, fatigue, and well-being.
Main Results:
- Significant alterations in melatonin and cortisol levels were observed on call compared to pre-call.
- Increased daytime sleep duration was noted on call and post-call day 1.
- Marked deterioration in subjective measures of sleepiness, fatigue, and well-being occurred on post-call day 1.
Conclusions:
- Night shifts significantly disrupt the circadian rhythm of surgeons.
- The findings underscore the physiological toll of night call on surgical residents, affecting their health and potentially performance.
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