Fatigue and critical care nurses

Abstract

In Brief Fatigue is a growing concern for nurses, especially those caring for critically ill patients. This article discusses specific factors that are associated with poor sleep and fatigue, such as long working hours and shift work. Countermeasures to combat sleepiness and fatigue are presented as well as online resources for education and training. Physical fatigue is a major concern for critical care nurses. This article reviews how sleep loss affects fatigue, the dangers of shift work, safer scheduling practices, and countermeasures critical care nurses can take to avoid feeling fatigued on the unit. Resources to help address fatigue level and manage symptoms are also listed.