Shift Work Disorder (SWD)
Shift Work Disorder occurs when the body’s internal sleep-wake clock is out of sync with the work schedule.
Because of this disruption of the body’s natural rhythm, people with Shift Work Disorder often struggle to stay awake during their waking hours or have trouble sleeping during their sleeping hours.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 15 million Americans work outside of the traditional 9 to 5 schedule. 1 in 4 of these workers may have Shift Work Disorder (SWD)
Risk Factors for SWD may include:
- Work schedules that include night, early morning, or rotating shifts.
- Work hours that overlap with the typical sleep period
- Frequent Mandatory Overtime. Shift work is often combined with extended hours of duty, so fatigue can be a compounding factor.
Symptoms
- Insomnia
- Trouble focusing
- Sleepiness-related accidents
- Reduced work performance
- Struggle to stay awake at work
- Impaired functioning
- Increased irritability
- Worsening of heart and stomach disorders
Signs and tests
There are currently no definitive tests available for diagnosis of Shift Work Disorder. If you think you may be suffering from SWD, please consult with your physician.
Treatment
There really is no cure for Shift Work Disorder other than changing your work hours to a ‘normal’ daytime work schedule. This may not be a possibility; especially in the nursing field. Nursing is 24/7 and as long as there are sick people, there will be night shift workers in nursing. Next week, we discuss some treatments that can help alleviate some of the symptoms of SWD.
Support Groups
Below you will find a couple of Support Groups for those suffering from SWD. The Gypsy Nurse does not personally endorse these groups, they are only provided as a reference.
- http://www.drugs.com/answers/support-group/shift-work-sleep-disorder/
- https://www.inspire.com/groups/sleep-disorders/topics/shift-work/
I would encourage you to post comments. Tell me what you want to hear about, what you enjoyed, or how you combat some of the issues discussed. You may also connect with us via Twitter or Facebook and together we can work on decreasing the symptoms together.
This information is provided by The Gypsy Nurse and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition.
