Fatigue prevention during 12-hour
shifts is a challenge because extended
hours strain the limits of
concentration and physical endurance
for many nurses. However,
fatigue countermeasures such as
taking breaks are important for
productivity and to relieve stress.
Because these breaks aremandated
by the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration, it is reasonable
and humane to ensure
that nurses are able to take them.
Workplaces need to make it a
part of the cultural norm to take
completely relieved breaks, which
we define as a time when the nurse
turns over responsibility for her/his
patients for the duration of the
break. However, many facilities
have limited or no coverage to allow
their staff to take their requisite
meal and other breaks during
the workday.
Nurses can be hired for