Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to explore perspectives of nurse leaders regarding strategies to mitigate the job demands of 12-hour shift work and learn their views regarding the role of breaks in offsetting the cognitive and physical demands of acute care nurses working 12-hour shifts.
BACKGROUND: The strain of long shifts can result in adverse outcomes for nurses, organizations, and patients.
METHODS: A modified, 3-round, e-Delphi solicited input from nurse leaders. First, qualitative information about support and resources to mitigate the adverse effects of 12-hour shifts was collected, and then 2 subsequent rounds used consensus identification and item ranking to develop recommendations.
RESULTS: Findings reinforce that job demands of 12-hour shifts can be mitigated via staffing practices, quiet break spaces, and the opportunity to work with familiar patients.
CONCLUSIONS: Recommendations from this work may enhance patient safety, positive organizational outcomes, and a resilient and sustainable nursing workforce.