The Impact of Long Working Hours and Shift Schedules on Nurse Performance and Safety

Authors: Mashael Eid Jarman Alotaybi, Mohammed Ali Alanazi, Bin Nujaifan Nawaf Aqeel, Alharbi, Sultan Jadi, Sultan Khaleed Alanazi

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: This study examines the effects of extended working hours and various shift schedules on the performance and safety of nurses in healthcare settings. The research synthesizes findings from multiple studies conducted between 2000 and 2014, focusing on how these factors influence patient care quality, medical errors, and nurse well-being. A comprehensive literature review and meta-analysis were conducted, incorporating data from 25 peer-reviewed studies. Results indicate a significant correlation between long working hours (>12 hours) and increased rates of medical errors, decreased patient satisfaction, and higher levels of nurse burnout. Additionally, irregular shift schedules, remarkably rapid rotations, and night shifts were associated with reduced cognitive performance and increased risk of occupational injuries. The findings underscore the importance of implementing evidence-based scheduling practices and fatigue management strategies in healthcare institutions to enhance nurse performance and patient safety.

Keywords: Nurse performance, patient safety, shift work, extended hours, fatigue management, healthcare quality

Paper Id: 231484

Published On: 2014-01-03

Published In: Volume 2, Issue 1, January-February 2014

Cite This: The Impact of Long Working Hours and Shift Schedules on Nurse Performance and Safety - Mashael Eid Jarman Alotaybi, Mohammed Ali Alanazi, Bin Nujaifan Nawaf Aqeel, Alharbi, Sultan Jadi, Sultan Khaleed Alanazi - IJIRMPS Volume 2, Issue 1, January-February 2014.

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