Shift Length Flexibility Effects on Nurse Burnout and Quality of Patient Care

Abstract

Record ID: 116

Award(s): Excellence in Undergraduate Research Mentorship; Excellence in Research Communication

Program Affiliation: Capstone

Presentation Type: Poster

Abstract: The current standard practice for a nurse's schedule is three 12-hour shifts per week. Almost 50% of nurses are dissatisfied with their job when working these hours, and a third are dissatisfied with their work schedule. Additionally, working 12 or more hours can cause burnout, leading to diminished mental capacity, less attentiveness, and an increased risk for errors in patient care and safety. The purpose of this project is to investigate the benefits and shortcomings of alternate schedule options for nurses to prevent these contingencies. The research examines the question of how shift length flexibility has an effect on burnout and the quality of care delivered to patients. An evidence-based methodology was used to gather current literature to form an education plan for the targeted population. An educational powerpoint displaying the evidence was then presented to cancer and blood disease pediatric nurses at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. A pre and post-test was administered to allow for the analysis of their knowledge gained after attending the education session. The outcome of this work is aimed at helping to further the empowerment of nurses to form an educated opinion when presented with a variety of scheduling options. Results are pending.