Journal of Nursing & Care

12-Hour Shift, Beneficial or Harmful

Abstract

Karen Watkins

12- hours shifts are becoming increasingly common in nursing as a result of several factors. In the U.S., many hospitals have employed 12-hour shifts because leaders in these healthcare organizations believe it's the ideal way of providing 24-hour care with enhanced continuity of staff and reduced costs. Nurses have different sentiments about 12-hour shifts with some preferring to practice longer daily hours with few shifts, allowing them higher flexibility and more days off. Nonetheless, there has been increasing concerns over possible threats to patient safety and quality of care, with major stakeholders questioning the benefits of 12-hour shifts. With the current focus on retention, increasing quality of care, and improving patient outcomes, hospital administrators need to find the balance between 12-hour and 8-hour shifts. The goal is for policy law makers to enforce a comprehensive approach to fatigue management by supporting healthful work schedules, and appropriate nurse/patient ratios at the national, state and organizational level.