How Shift Schedules Shape Nurses’ Sleep and Compassion: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Aim

This study examines the associations between fixed and rotating shifts on nurses’ sleep quality and compassion fatigue, aiming to address a critical gap in understanding how work schedules are associated with nurses’ well-being and patient care.

Background

Nurses play a vital role in healthcare; however, irregular work schedules are often associated with compromised well-being. Rotating shifts are associated with poor sleep quality and emotional exhaustion, impairing their ability to provide compassionate care.

Design and methods

A cross-sectional design was used to recruit 288 nurses from public hospitals through simple random sampling, with equal numbers in fixed and rotating shift groups (n = 144 each). Sleep quality and compassion fatigue were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL), respectively, both of which are valid and reliable measures. Independent samples t tests and Mann–Whitney U tests were performed to analyze group differences. The reporting method used was STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) for observational studies.

Results

Nurses working rotating shifts reported significantly poorer sleep quality (p < 0.001) and higher levels of burnout and secondary traumatic stress, components of compassion fatigue, compared with those on fixed shifts (p < 0.001). Compassion satisfaction was significantly lower among rotating shift nurses (p < 0.001). Effect sizes were large for all comparisons, highlighting the substantial associations of rotating shifts on these outcomes.

Conclusion

This study highlights the significant differences associated with rotating shifts on nurses’ sleep and emotional well-being. Rotating schedules are associated with a higher likelihood of compassion fatigue and reduced compassion satisfaction, suggesting the need for organizational interventions based on observed associations. Transitioning to fixed shifts, coupled with resilience-building programs, may be associated with better nurses’ well-being and safeguarding patient care quality.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Policymakers and healthcare administrators should prioritize fixed schedules and invest in targeted interventions to alleviate the adverse effects of rotating shifts. Such measures are critical to sustaining a healthy nursing workforce and ensuring optimal patient care.