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Effects of a night float system on housestaff neuropsychologic function
D J Gottlieb1, C A Peterson, C M Parenti
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.
Journal of General Internal Medicine
|March 1, 1993
Summary
The night float system (NFS) did not improve housestaff psychomotor function despite reduced sleep deprivation. However, NFS housestaff reported lower depression, suggesting potential benefits for resident mood.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Sleep Medicine
- Psychiatry
Background:
- The impact of different resident scheduling systems on housestaff well-being is crucial.
- Understanding the psychological effects of overnight call systems (ONCS) and night float systems (NFS) is essential for improving residency training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the neuropsychological effects of an overnight call system (ONCS) versus a night float system (NFS) on housestaff.
- To assess the impact of these systems on sleep deprivation, psychomotor function, and mood.
Main Methods:
- Housestaff underwent neuropsychological testing after call under both ONCS and NFS schedules.
- Data on sleep deprivation, psychomotor performance, depression, hostility, and anxiety were collected and compared between the two systems.
Main Results:
- NFS housestaff experienced less sleep deprivation compared to ONCS.
- No significant differences were found in psychomotor function tests between the two groups.
- Both groups exhibited high scores for depression, hostility, and anxiety, though NFS housestaff had slightly lower depression scores.
Conclusions:
- While NFS did not enhance psychomotor function, it may offer a slight benefit in reducing depression among housestaff.
- Further research is needed to identify specific aspects of residency training that negatively impact housestaff mood.