American Academy of Nursing Policy Recommendations to Reduce and Prevent Negative Health Outcomes and Health Care Costs Among Night Shift Nurses: An AAN Manuscript

Abstract

A growing body of evidence demonstrates occupational night shift hazards. Decades of research point to health risks for nurses contributing to chronic diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cognitive/mental health, and cancers—all associated with earlier mortality. Patient safety, recruitment and retention of quality nursing workforce, and related costs are important concerns associated with night shift work. Post COVID-19, nurses have advocated and lobbied for many changes in their work environments, yet little emphasis has been placed on addressing night shift health and patient safety hazards, and concomitant personal, insurer, organizational, and federal costs. Nurses are also recipients of health care, and their work-related risks must be prioritized. Innovative solutions targeting individuals, work environments, novel schedules, virtual nursing, and artificial intelligence have been examined and must continue to be studied and implemented. Policy and legislation must be among the strategies for nurses, no different than other night shift workers (e.g., flight crews).