Exploring Perceptions of Shift Length: A State-Based Survey of Registered Nurses

Abstract

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to explore clinical nurses' perspectives of shift length. BACKGROUND Discussions about scheduling practices, work rotations, and shift length are pervasive among nurses and nursing leadership. However, the science surrounding nurse perceptions of longer shifts is limited. METHODS A survey instrument was developed and distributed to nurses engaged in the state's professional association. RESULTS Data from 190 clinical nurses were included. When working a 40-hour work week, 76.3% reported a preference for 10-hour shifts, whereas 83.5% preferred a 12-hour shift during a 36-hour week. Those who chose longer shifts perceived improved work life balance and better patient care. Those identifying 8-hour shifts also pointed to work life balance as benefit. CONCLUSIONS The results capture the voice of the nurse regarding shift length. The preference for the 10-hour shift within the 40-hour work week is novel. These results may assist with efforts to initiate change, improve the work environment and enhance home life.

Nurses’ experiences and preferences around shift patterns: A scoping review

“…Across different studies there were contrasting results for nurses’ views about the impact of long shifts on the quality and continuity of care after 12 hour shifts were implemented. Long shifts were perceived by unregistered healthcare staff [ 37 ] and nurses to improve patient and continuity of care [ 38 , 41 , 42 , 45 , 46 , 48 , 49 ]. The implementation of long shifts rendered possible the full completion of their nursing tasks, as evidenced by fewer interruptions of work tasks and the possibility to focus on their tasks for longer [ 41 , 42 ].…”

“…Fatigue (or tiredness) was a feature reported by nurses across all shift lengths, suggesting nurse endure a physical burden when working shifts irrespective of their length. Nursing staff working short [ 37 , 43 ] and long shifts [ 27 , 38 , 40 – 42 , 44 , 47 – 49 ] reported experiencing fatigue when working shifts. Nurses reported having to pace themselves to complete their shifts, reflecting the necessity for increased physical, mental and emotional stamina when working long shifts [ 44 , 46 ].…”

“…Exhaustion during and after working long shifts was also a common feature reported by nurses [ 26 , 33 , 44 ]. They described that working long shifts led to burnout, reduction in physical and mental health [ 49 ].…”

“…In one study, some nurses recognised that fatigue was an adverse effect of long shifts, but they found this was mitigated by the increased number of days off-work [ 46 ]. The extra days off and improved work-life balance were often mentioned as the reason for a preference for long shifts [ 36 , 38 , 41 , 42 , 44 – 49 ]. Work-life balance was also positively rated by nurses working 8 hour shifts [ 49 ].…”

“…The extra days off and improved work-life balance were often mentioned as the reason for a preference for long shifts [ 36 , 38 , 41 , 42 , 44 – 49 ]. Work-life balance was also positively rated by nurses working 8 hour shifts [ 49 ]. Noticeably, one study reported that nurses’ views of shift length on their leisure was mixed.…”