The effects of night shift work on nurses’ physical health in hospital wards

Abstract

In a profession as demanding as nursing, night shifts are the norm and form an integral part of patient care. Nevertheless, working overnight can take a toll on nurses’ wellness. This literature review explored the various health issues nurses may face while working night shifts and the potential long-term effects of pro-longed exposure to such schedules. Based on the existing literature, this study found that sleep-related health problems, cardiovascular disease, metabolic dis-orders, and immune system dysfunctions are some of the major health concerns associated with night shift work. These findings highlight significant individual-level health implications for nurses and point to broader consequences for the healthcare system.

This review's findings have key insights for government representatives, nursing professionals, and healthcare system managers. It is anticipated that these in-sights will contribute to improved nurse health and, in turn, enhance the quality of patient care.