Effects of Abated Quick Returns (<11 h) on Insomnia and Sleepiness
Summary
This large cluster randomized trial in a Norwegian hospital tested cutting down “quick returns” (making sure there are >11 hours between shifts) for 6 months. Units assigned to the new schedule halved their quick returns (about 13.2 → 6.7), while control units stayed near 13.2 → 12.0. Compared with usual scheduling, the reduced–quick-return schedule led to small but significant improvements in insomnia symptoms and daytime sleepiness. There was no improvementin work-related fatigue.
Why It Matters For Night Shift Workers and Night Owls
When the gap between shifts is at least 11 hours, people get a more realistic window to wind down and sleep. In this trial, that change modestly reduced insomnia symptoms and daytime sleepiness—even though the effects were small and fatigue at work didn’t improve. Bottom line: schedule design matters. Pushing for >11 hours between shifts is a practical, workplace-level lever that can make sleep a little easier.
Notes
Companion study models organizational changes; see next item.