Survey and critique of studies related to shift length variations in nursing from 1970 to 1993

The purpose of this study was to describe the current status, stage of staffing change, and findings of research relating to shift length variations in nursing. This was accomplished through a review of the literature to (a) evaluate the quality of the research, (b) summarize and draw conclusions related to variations in nursing shift length, and (c) identify gaps in the literature for the purpose of making recommendations for future studies related to nursing shift length variations. Multiple methods were utilized for locating potential studies to include in this project. Smith and Stullenbarger's (1991) Quality of Study instrument was used to rate the studies. None of the research reviewed explicitly identified a conceptual or theoretical framework or model, and few studies could be classified as scientifically rigorous. This study illuminates the state of the art and findings related to length of shift variations in nursing, and as such has implications for practice and research in nursing service administration.