Assessment of Sleep Disorders Among Rotating Shift and Day-Shift Nurses in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Swat.

Abstract

Background
Due to disruptions in circadian rhythms, sleep disorders are prevalent among nurses, particularly those working rotating shifts. These disorders affect their physical, mental, and emotional health, influencing job performance and the quality of patient care. Understanding the sleep patterns of rotating shift and day-working nurses is vital to developing targeted interventions.
Aim: This study aimed to assess and compare the prevalence and severity of sleep disorders among nurses working rotating and day shifts in a tertiary care hospital in Swat.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed with 160 nurses selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographic details and sleep-related complaints. Statistical analysis, including chi-square tests, was conducted using SPSS version 26.
Results: The findings revealed that 71.9% of nurses reported sleeping six or more hours without night shifts, while 28.1% slept less. Sleep quality was rated as reasonably good by 53.1%, but 12.5% experienced poor sleep. Rotating shift nurses reported significantly higher sleep disturbances, with difficulty falling asleep and waking during the night being prominent. A significant association (p = 0.01) was found between rotating shifts and secondary employment, exacerbating sleep problems.
Conclusion: Rotating shift nurses are more prone to sleep disorders than their day-working counterparts. The findings emphasize the need for healthcare institutions to implement flexible scheduling, sleep hygiene education, and mental health support to mitigate sleep-related issues and improve nurse well-being and patient care outcomes.