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Updated: Jan 9, 2026

Collecting Sleep, Circadian, Fatigue, and Performance Data in Complex Operational Environments
Published on: August 8, 2019
Effectiveness of light intervention on daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and sleep quality among female shift-working
Shu-Fen Niu1, Yu-Ying Lu2, Yu-Chieh Lin3
1Department of Nursing, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, No. 95 Wen Chang Road, Shih Lin District, Taipei City, 111, Taiwan; Department of Nursing, Fu Jen Catholic University, No. 510 Zhongzheng Road, Xinzhuang District, New Taipei City, 242, Taiwan.
Background:
Sleep disturbances and fatigue are prevalent among female shift-working nurses, adversely affecting their health and job performance.
Objectives:
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of light intervention in reducing daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and improving sleep quality among female shift-working nurses.
Methods:
A randomized controlled trial was conducted at a medical center in northern Taiwan with 80 female nurses assigned to either an experimental or control group. Baseline assessments included demographics, work characteristics, and measures using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The experimental group used a wearable light device (Re-Timer®) for 30-40 min daily over four weeks, while the control group continued their usual routines. Follow-up assessments occurred on day 14 (T1) and day 28 (T2).
Results:
Results from Generalized Estimating Equations (GEEs) analysis showed significant reductions in sleepiness (ESS) at T2 and improvements in sleep quality (PSQI) at T1 and T2 in the experimental group compared to the control (p < .05). No significant changes were found in fatigue (BFI).
Conclusions:
The study supports light intervention as a safe, low-cost, and non-pharmacological approach to reduce daytime sleepiness and enhance sleep in shift-working nurses, suggesting its integration into occupational health programs for healthcare providers.
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