Working Nights: Striking a Balance. Wayne Peacock, RPSGT Manager, Sleep and Neurodiagnostics Baptist Hospital Pensacola, Florida

Transcription

1 Working Nights: Striking a Balance Wayne Peacock, RPSGT Manager, Sleep and Neurodiagnostics Baptist Hospital Pensacola, Florida

2 Objectives Understanding sleep hygiene for the shift worker How to recognize a sleepy staff member Ways to be supportive of the shift worker Scheduling changes that may affect performance How planning can improve quality of life for shift workers

3 Some things we know. Lack of adequate sleep over time has been associated with a shortened lifespan Sleep and mood are closely connected Chronic insomnia may increase the risk of developing a mood disorder, such as anxiety or depression Not only does sleep affect mood, but mood and mental states can also affect sleep Studies have found that 15 to 20 percent of people diagnosed with insomnia will develop major depression

4 We know what to do about it.. Have a routine Relax Remove stress from the sleep room Don t watch the clock Exercise Create your cave Eat sensibly Keep a set schedule Promote healthy work life balance

5 Achieving Optimal Sleep and Alertness. Establish a sleep/wake pattern Nap prior to shifts Snack healthily during your shift Light exercise during breaks Caffeine in moderation Bright light exposure Performance levels lowest between

6 Nights v. Days.plan ahead Schedule time with friends and family Book breakfast dates Light activity on your first day off Schedule housework and chores Automate monthly payments Network at night Cell phones and computers.

7 So, how do we do it? Recognize sleepy employees Offer shifts that rotate clockwise Educate Encourage naps on breaks Develop a buddy system for shift workers Adopt healthy living strategies Encourage short breaks Exercise Promote healthy sleep habits

8 Recognize signs of fatigue.. Frequent eye blinks Irritability & Mood swings Eye redness Dark circles under eyes Far off stares Difficulty focusing Difficulty with words Excessive sleepiness Anxiety Poor concentration

9 How can managers help??? Enforce max hours worked policies Allow 8 hours between work shift Schedule rotations in a clockwise direction End night shifts prior to sun rise Encourage diet and exercise programs Be supportive Provide a rest period of at least 24 hours after each set of night shifts.

10 Scheduling. Provide time off at "socially advantageous" times Plan schedules well ahead of time Keep schedules as simple and predictable as possible Consider alternative forms of organizing work schedules Rotate shifts forward

11 Work Environment Do not widely separate workstations Provide adequate lighting Provide good cafeteria services Consider access to quality day-care for shiftworkers Provide rest facilities where possible

12 Suggestions for the night worker.. Maintain regular eating patterns Schedule family meals Time meals carefully Night workers should eat lightly throughout the shift Have a moderate breakfast Drink lots of water Eat crackers and fruit Avoid excessive use of antacids, tranquilizers and sleeping pills

13 More tips Turn off phones Use an answering machine Place a sign on door Use white noise Learn how to relax Note general physical fitness and good health habits Limit commitments later in the day to allow for napping

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15 Be Aware.. Sleep deprivation is a serious issue Sleep does and will impact your business Be aware and offer support Education is key Most are unaware they are building a sleep debt Set realistic goals within your organization Offer help Remember, sleepiness mimics drunkenness

16 What we discussed. Understanding sleep hygiene for the shift worker How to recognize a sleepy staff member Ways to be supportive of the shift worker Scheduling changes that may affect performance How planning can improve quality of life for shift workers

17 Contact Info:

18 References Technical Corner: Tips for Working the Night Shift. Cynthia Mattice, MS, RPSGT Keeping Night Techs Healthy and Happy. Wayne Peacock, RPSGT h / h / / hift