As part of their jobs, people in nursing careers are sometimes responsible for working a night shift. Not everyone looks forward to this task, as it can sometimes disrupt sleeping patterns or complicate social lives. However, there is another potential consequence of a night shift – or a schedule filled with them – that is even more important for nurses to keep in mind.
Shift work disorder is a common condition that afflicts firefighters, police officers, factory workers and, of course, many people with medical careers, such as nurses, doctors and paramedics. Indeed, up to 20 percent of working Americans are at risk for shift work disorder because they work night or rotating shifts, according to the New England Journal of Medicine.
Although it is not a risk for all nurses, it is important to be able to recognize, avoid and remedy the problems associated with shift work disorder.
The symptoms
It is not easy to recognize the symptoms of shift work disorder with 100 percent accuracy because the condition typically manifests itself differently among individuals. In general, though, dwindling memory reserves, problems focusing and mild-to-severe insomnia are the most prevalent indicators.
In many cases, difficulty falling asleep or waking up are the first and most common warning signs of impending or emerging shift work disorder. As these signs are not just indicative of this specific disorder – they could just be signals of commonplace sleep deprivation – it is important to get further advice if you think they could be the first signs of shift work disorder.
Prevention steps
If any of the above symptoms rear their heads, it is a good idea to begin taking steps to stave off shift work disorder. While switching shifts or taking a few days off from work can be effective ways to nip this problem in the bud, this may not always be possible. Improving daytime sleep may be helpful. To get your best daytime rest, stay away from caffeine close to bedtime, eliminate noise from your sleep environment, avoid alcoholic beverages after your shift, and maintain a consistent sleep schedule each day. If your symptoms worsen, you should consult a qualified expert.
Repercussions
It is important to treat shift work disorder early, as the condition can sometimes lead to serious consequences if it intensifies. According to a 2005 study by Kenshu Suzuki, M.D., reported by Scrubs, nurses suffering from lack-of-sleep and attention-related problems were more likely to make drug administration errors, operate medical equipment incorrectly and suffer an increased amount of physical ailments.
Shift work disorder does not affect all nurses – even all of those with regular night shifts – but it is important for all people with nursing jobs to understand the risks, symptoms and consequences of the disorder to decrease their chances of becoming afflicted.