Working Hour and Schedule Characteristics among Nurses: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Introduction: To describe and compare characteristics of working hours and work schedules among nurses in 2019 and 2021. Evidence about the association regarding the relationship between nurses’ working hours and schedules with the COVID-19 pandemic is limited. Materials and Methods: The research was conducted at a medical unit of a secondary care regional hospital in Slovenia. Of 71 employees who were eligible, 24 fulfilled the criteria and their data were included in the study. Results and Discussion: There were substantial differences in working hour and schedule characteristics between 2019 and 2021. Compared to 2019, nurses in 2021 worked more hours, more long shifts, had fewer free weekends and education days, and almost double the number of sick days. Conclusion: While the nurse manager managed some of the working hour and schedule characteristics appropriately, additional awareness raising, and implementation of a related computer program, are suggested to optimize and develop work schedules.