Lifestyle Impacts of Extended Nursing Shifts Among Nurses: A Study in Tertiary Care Hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan

Abstract

A significant concern in healthcare settings is extended hours' effect on nurses' health. Objective: This study aims to explore the lifestyle impacts of extended nursing shifts among nurses at tertiary care hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in three tertiary care hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan, among 100 nurses. Results: Study findings reveal that majority, 87%, believe it hinders decision-making, while 88% see sleep deficits and 88% note time constraints for exercise. Communication quality is a concern for 76%. 78% see knowledge transfer issues when nurses hand over responsibilities, and 58% think religious activities are impacted. Opinions vary on patient care quality (50% positive). Stress levels concern 80%, social lives are disrupted for 91%, and physical health effects concern 93%. Additional worries include inadequate diet (39%), nurses working long shifts are exhausted (91%), child care neglect (89%), altered eliminatory patterns (84%), life expectancy (32%), memory problems (69%), hormonal disruptions (76%), workplace conflicts (88%), and infection risk (88%). Finally, 76% perceive high absenteeism. Conclusions:  The findings underscore significant concerns about the negative impact of long working hours on nurses' health and performance. To address these issues, it is recommended that healthcare institutions prioritize implementing structured shift rotations and providing adequate breaks to mitigate the adverse effects of extended shifts on nurses' wellbeing and patient care quality.