Evidence From Disruption to Therapy: A Systematic Review of Lighting Interventions for Night Shift Nurses
Seyedeh Nazli Hosseini1,2, Nicole Kreidler3, Randy J Nelson2
1School of Art and Design, College of Creative Arts and Media, West Virginia University, WV, USA.
Abstract:
ObjectivesThis systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of lighting-based interventions and to support night-shift nurses' health and well-being. The goal is to synthesize evidence on how specific lighting parameters, including spectrum, intensity, timing, and duration, can transform nighttime light exposure from a circadian disruptor into a therapeutic intervention.BackgroundSubstantial evidence indicates that disruption of circadian rhythms by nighttime light exposure poses significant health risks to night-shift workers, particularly in healthcare settings, where lighting conditions influence both staff well-being. Increasingly, research also highlights the therapeutic potential of targeted lighting interventions to support the health and performance of this vulnerable population. As such, purposeful lighting offers an opportunity to transform light from a disruptor of circadian rhythms into a therapeutic tool for night-shift caregivers.MethodThis systematic review synthesizes findings from randomized controlled trials published between 2002 and 2025 that assessed lighting interventions for night-shift staff in healthcare environments.ResultsInterventions varied in spectrum, intensity, duration, and timing; each parameter had distinct physiological and psychological effects. Blue-enriched and full-spectrum light administered during night shifts were consistently associated with improved alertness, circadian phase alignment, and melatonin regulation. By contrast, warm-spectrum or filtered light played a protective role in maintaining melatonin levels. High-intensity and longer duration exposures tended to produce stronger effects across outcomes.ConclusionsCollectively, these findings support the adoption of evidence-based, personalized lighting strategies in healthcare design. Strategic manipulation of lighting features can improve staff well-being and performance, patient safety, and overall quality of care.
