Effects of single- and double-shift work on hand and cognitive functions in nurses

This study aims to examine the influence of single and double-shift work schedules on hand function and cognitive capacities, specifically working memory, attention, and response time in nurses.

Shift work, particularly in extended formats, is known to affect various physical and cognitive functions critical to nursing duties. Understanding these impacts is vital for managing nurse schedules to minimize health risks and maximize performance.

With an increase in demands on healthcare systems, nurses often endure prolonged working hours, which may impair their cognitive and manual abilities, thereby affecting patient care quality.

This study involved 45 nurses aged 20-40 years from shift-oriented units providing direct patient care. Hand function was assessed using the Nine-Hole Peg Test (9-HPT). Cognitive functions such as working memory, attention, and response time were evaluated using the digit span task and the Stroop test, respectively. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for statistical analysis, assessing the interactions of time and shift type, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.

The results revealed significant changes in all tested variables between pre- and post-shift assessments and between single and double-shift conditions. Notably, the double-shift work significantly exacerbated declines in all measured functions.

These findings suggest that double shifts may intensify the deterioration of essential nursing skills, potentially compromising patient care.

This study underscores the detrimental effects of extended shift work on nurses' cognitive and manual functions. These insights should guide healthcare institutions in revising nurse scheduling practices to safeguard their well-being and maintain high standards of patient care.