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Individual flexibility: an essential prerequisite in arranging shift schedules for midwives
Journal of Nursing Management
|July 1, 1996
Summary
Finnish hospital staff experienced reduced mental strain and stress through an intervention improving shift work flexibility. While effective, many preferred longer breaks over optimized schedules, highlighting the need for individual input in planning.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Healthcare Management
- Nursing Studies
Background:
- Irregular shift systems in Finnish hospitals disrupt personnel social life and cause fatigue due to short rest periods.
- Hierarchical hospital structures limit the utilization of legislative flexibility in shift schedule planning.
- Existing shift work models negatively impact healthcare professionals' well-being and work-life balance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify strategies for mitigating the strain associated with irregular shift work in hospital settings.
- To evaluate the impact of an intervention designed to enhance flexibility and reduce 'quick returns' in shift schedules.
- To assess changes in mental strain, stress levels, and social interaction among hospital personnel.
Main Methods:
- A two-part study involving a survey of 366 midwives on three-shift work and a 6-month intervention in six maternity wards with 45 participants.
- Implementation of an intervention focused on increasing personnel influence and reducing backward rotation with short rest periods.
- Data collection on mental strain, stress levels, and social interaction before and after the intervention.
Main Results:
- The intervention increased personnel influence and decreased 'quick returns', leading to reduced mental strain and stress.
- Positive effects were particularly noted in older midwives, with less strenuous work and improved social interaction.
- Despite improvements, 55% of participants preferred the previous system offering longer continuous free time.
Conclusions:
- Individual flexibility and participation in shift schedule planning are crucial for healthcare personnel well-being.
- The demands of social life can outweigh physiological criteria for optimal shift systems.
- Healthcare organizations should prioritize adaptable and participatory approaches to shift work planning to improve staff satisfaction and reduce strain.