Responding to the BMJ Open findings on high prevalence of probable shiftwork disorder among NHS staff, RCN Chief Nursing Officer Professor Lynn Woolsey, said:
"These findings are shocking but not surprising. Shift work in the NHS is physically, intellectually and emotionally draining, but it’s made far worse due to workforce shortages and increasing levels of patient demand. The impact is clear to see, with nursing staff being left ill from stress, unable to sleep and struggling with their mental health.
"Employers must ease the burden on staff through measures like safer rota design, ensuring staff get the breaks they need and proper recovery time between shifts. Nursing staff need access to occupational health support, and for managers to get the training on how to recognise and respond to fatigue-risks.
“This is a workplace hazard that must be managed properly as it also poses a risk to patient safety. At government level, investment in nursing to ease workforce pressures and deliver safe staffing levels and improved retention is essential.”
Ends
