Effects of shift work type on fatigue, both psychological and physical, and burnout among ICU nurses in Japan

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of shift work type on fatigue, both psychological and physical, and burnout among intensive care unit (ICU) nurses in Japan.

Methods: From August to November 2021, a cross-sectional study on the type of shift work in Japan was conducted using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire survey (mailed). The survey contents included items on demographic characteristics, types of shift work in the ICU, the Japanese General Health Questionnaire-12, the Japanese Burnout Scale, and the “Jikaku-sho shirabe” work-related physical fatigue scale.

Results: In total, 334 responses were received. A comparison of pre- and post-work “Jikaku-sho shirabe” scores indicated that 8-hour rotations (counterclockwise/backward) increased fatigue before the day shift, rather than after the day shift. On the Burnout Scale, 8-hour rotations (counterclockwise/backward) were significantly associated with high burnout, as indicated by a “decreased sense of personal accomplishment” (odds ratio = 4.79; 95% confidence interval: 1.57, 14.62).

Conclusions: The 8-hour rotation (counterclockwise/backward) significantly increased burnout tendency and showed high physical fatigue before the day shift. Therefore, 8-hour rotations (counterclockwise/backward) may not be recommended for ICU nurses to continue to demonstrate advanced knowledge, rapid judgment, and nursing skills when dealing with patients. If 8-hour rotations (counterclockwise/backward) are chosen, to reduce “instability” before the day shift, sufficient consideration should be given to handover from the night shift, breaks during the shift, and follow-up.