Sleep‑scheduling strategies in hospital shiftworkers: a scoping review
Summary
This study surveyed 89 hospital staff working 12-hour day and night shifts to learn how they manage sleep around demanding schedules. Researchers found that most workers used multiple strategies to cope, often shaped by personal or family responsibilities. Some strategies — like staying on a night schedule (“Night Stay”) or gradually switching before night shifts (“Switch Sleeper-N”) — were linked to lower mid-shift sleepiness. Others, including partial adjustments (“Incomplete Shifters”) or approaches that restricted total sleep, were tied to poorer adaptation. Overall, the study shows that not all sleep-scheduling strategies are equal, and personal circumstances play a big role in which ones workers choose.
Why It Matters For Night Shift Workers and Night Owls
This research highlights that how you manage your sleep outside of work can make a real difference in how alert you feel on shift. Strategies that align better with circadian rhythms — like keeping a steady night routine or preparing for nights with gradual shifts — help reduce sleepiness, while inconsistent or restrictive approaches make things harder. For night-shift workers, it’s worth experimenting with structured sleep patterns and finding strategies that fit both your body clock and your personal life. Employers can also support staff by offering education on circadian health so workers can make more informed choices.