Nursing

Driving under the influence of drowsiness

Stressed Out Nurses Weekly, December 31, 2007

It's no secret that being a nurse can do a number on your health. For example, sore backs from lifting patients and poor eating habits because of strange schedules and lack of time can have a detrimental effect on your health. Based on a recent study, you can also add "driving under the influence of drowsiness" to the list.

According to a new study published in the December 1 issue of SLEEP, staff nurses who work extended hours, work at night, struggle to remain awake at work, or obtain less sleep are more likely to experience a drowsy driving episode. The data was compiled during a four-week span and focused on 895 nurses, who reported, on average, one drowsy-driving episode out of every four shifts worked. Additionally, 281 accidents or near car accidents were reported during the study.

Sleep restriction and sleep fragmentation are listed as the two main causes of drowsy driving. To combat the problem, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends people get enough sleep, take breaks while driving, consume caffeine, avoid alcohol, and avoid late-night driving.

Source: American Academy of Sleep Medicine press release

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