Tips and Tricks to Avoid Shift Work Disorder From 12 Hour Rounds
Nurses are at a higher risk for an ailment referred to as shift work disorder. This disruption in sleeping patterns can make it increasingly difficult to get the sleep you need, and ultimately affect the way you function. If your nursing shifts are typically longer than 8 hours, or you work during off hours, then you may already be suffering the effects.
Not every nurse working 12-hour shifts will develop shift work disorder, but it is something that you should be aware of. Knowing the causes and symptoms will help you to recognize it fast and make the necessary changes in your work and life to avoid any further disruption.
The Risks of Shift Work Sleep Disorder
Nurses who work frequent 12-hour shifts, rotate shifts, or are on multiple night duty will begin to lose the ability to focus. Memory becomes impaired, and you will find that you are depressed and irritable more often. Physically, you may find that you are prone to ulcers and heart disease. By not getting the proper amount of sleep, you are affecting the body and mind’s ability to function normally.
Working long hours is exhausting, and not just from the physical and mental strain of patient care. The human body has its own clock, which dictates when it should be awake, and when it is time to sleep. Once you have disrupted that clock, you will find it difficult to get the 6 to 8 hours of sleep you need. This could cause you to develop shift work sleep disorder.
Getting To Sleep After a Long Nursing Shift
After spending 12 hours of work, you would assume that falling to sleep and staying there would be as simple as closing your eyes. Yet it is not that easy for many nurses. Despite the body’s craving for a good 8-hour rest, it may be too wound up to get there. If your sleep deprivation starts by not being able to drift off, one of these techniques may help:
With these practices in place, you can count on at least six hours of uninterrupted sleep, helping you to avoid developing work shift sleep disorder. You will feel energized at the start of your day, and be able to focus clearly on the tasks at hand.
If you do try these tricks and find that good sleeping patterns still elude you, consider speaking to a professional. Sleep is vital to healthy living, and medical intervention may be necessary to get your body back on the right track.
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