Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 10, 2025

Collecting Sleep, Circadian, Fatigue, and Performance Data in Complex Operational Environments
Published on: August 8, 2019
Sleep is the best medicine: How rest facilities and EnergyPods can improve staff wellbeing
Eoin Dore1, Daniel Guerero1, Thomas Wallbridge1
1Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK.
Introduction:
Healthcare workers' wellbeing is critical to the NHS. Night shifts have a big impact on their physical and mental health. Recently there has been national funding for rest facilities.
Methods:
An EnergyPod was installed in the acute medical unit. The study comprised two surveys: one quantitative survey performed prior to the pod introduction and repeated 3 months after; and one qualitative survey performed immediately after pod use.
Results:
We observed more staff taking breaks of 30 minutes after the pod introduction (37% before vs 69% after). Of users, 81% felt more alert and 83% were more energised. Half of the respondents felt more able to drive after use.The feedback showed three themes: appreciation of designated space away from clinical areas, relaxation and improved interdisciplinary cohesion.
Conclusion:
We have shown consistent data that rest is important for wellbeing. We recommend the use of EnergyPods in high acuity areas.
Related Concept Videos
Insufficient Sleep and Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation is a more severe form of sleep loss...
Management of Insomnia
Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
Understanding Sleep
The circadian rhythm, a nearly 24-hour cycle, is deeply influenced by environmental light cues. Light exposure directly affects the hypothalamus, which in turn regulates...
Restorative Care
Sleep-Wake Cycles
NREM Sleep
NREM sleep comprises four progressive stages that seamlessly merge:

