The impact of night shifts on cognitive performance and health among healthcare professionals

Abstract

Night shifts are essential to ensure a 24/7 persistent patient care in healthcare, although interferes with body’s circadian rhythm and sleeping patterns of its professionals. Cumulative sleep loss and fatigue subsequent influence the short-term performance and the health in the long-term. Night workers can experience slow thinking, poor concentration, and decreased of ability to handle complex tasks. In the long run, these consequences result in the increased risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, mood disorders, and professional burnout.