Examining the Influence of Shift length on Nurse Fatigue, Patient Care, Quality of Life, and Work-Life Dynamics in a Tertiary Hospital in Oman: Comparative Study

Abstract

Abstract This study investigates a comparative analysis of the perceptions of nurses engaged in 8-hour and 12-hour shifts, exploring various dimensions of their professional and personal lives. Conducted in a tertiary hospital in Muscat, Oman, the research investigates the potential impact of shift length on factors such as fatigue levels, quality of life, satisfaction, and safety incidents. While revealing nuanced insights into the advantages and drawbacks of each shift system, the study emphasizes caution in generalizing findings to other medical institutions. Methodological limitations, including the singular hospital focus and the short-term nature of the assessment after the 12-hour shift implementation, are acknowledged. The study calls for future research to expand these insights to diverse contexts and employ longitudinal approaches. Implications for nursing practice underscore the need for informed decision-making by management, considering factors such as nurse well-being, patient safety, and continuity of care. The study contributes valuable insights to the ongoing discourse on nursing shift lengths, emphasizing considerations for both research and practical application.