Impact of Shift Schedules on Sleep Quality and Cognitive Function Among Student Nurses

Abstract

Clinical rotations provide invaluable experience to student nurses. However, irregular and rotating schedules often disrupt sleep quality, negatively affecting their physical and mental health, academic performance, and cognitive functioning. These impacts may compromise their ability to deliver safe and effective patient care. This study employed a quantitative approach using a descriptive correlational research design. A total of 272 respondents participated, 136 Level III and 136 Level IV student nurses from Lorma Colleges, College of Nursing. Most respondents were between 21 and 23 years old. The distribution between year levels was equal, with 50% from each level. Findings revealed a high impact of shift schedules on sleep quality, indicating that sudden and rotating shifts significantly affect students' daily functioning. In contrast, cognitive function has a moderate impact, suggesting that although mental acuity is affected, it is not as severely impaired as sleep quality. Furthermore, most demographic profiles showed no significant relationship with the impact of shift schedules on sleep quality and cognitive function. However, a weak but statistically significant negative relationship was found between the profile regarding year level and the impact of shift schedules on sleep quality. Based on these results, student nurses may promote self-care strategies and offer institutional programs on sleep hygiene and stress management. Implementing peer mentoring programs, where student nurses share coping strategies that can help others adapt better to shift changes.