Challenging the myth of the 12-hour shift: a pilot evaluation

Abstract

This study illustrated the potential a new nursing shift pattern involving 12-hour shifts has for patient care, as well as for staff job satisfaction and efficient management of the ward. Twelve-hour shifts are infamous in nursing and many studies cite exhausted and dissatisfied staff as a reason for the negative press (Fitzpatrick et al 1999, Todd et al 1993). In particular, Todd et al (1989) claimed that the quality of patient care was negatively affected on wards that used a 12-hour shift pattern. The study reported here challenges Todd et al's work (1989, 1993) by demonstrating the benefits a change in shift pattern to 12-hour shifts can have for patients and staff in a ward environment.