The impact of extended shifts on strain‐based work–life conflict: A qualitative analysis of the role of context on temporal processes of retroactive and anticipatory spillover

Abstract

Twelve-h shifts can facilitate 24-h service provision and are often implemented in pursuit of financial goals. Existing evidence on the benefits of extended shifts is mixed. This study examines the impact of extended shifts on employee strain in a large mental healthcare organisation in England.Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nurses and healthcare assistants at 6 and 12 months intervals (n ¼ 70). Findings illustrate how extended shift patterns have a profound negative effect on high demands already confronting mental health staff, shaping spillover of strain. Analysis contributes to development of strain-based worklife conflict theory by conceptualising spillover as temporal and iterative. We argue theory should differentiate between retroactive (backward facing) and anticipatory (forward facing) spillover processes. Using context as a lens and identification of new dimensions to strain-based spillover aids interpretation of differential effects of extended shifts across settings. The study discusses implications for organisations, recovery and scheduling of shift work.

Nurses’ experiences and preferences around shift patterns: A scoping review

“…Relatedly, nurses choosing their own roster were more satisfied with their job [ 43 ]. In contrast, nurses were more reluctant to accept, adapt or prefer a particular shift pattern when it was mandatorily imposed [ 26 , 37 , 44 ].…”

“…One study highlighted how the ability to study was affected by the subsequent tiredness after working long shifts [ 47 ]. In some instances, the introduction of 12 hour shifts also reduced nurse confidence in their clinical skills and knowledge following extended time away from a dynamic ward environment [ 44 , 46 ]. Nurses working short shifts also declared having limited access to education, teaching or staff development as a result of work intensity [ 36 ].…”

“…Fatigue (or tiredness) was a feature reported by nurses across all shift lengths, suggesting nurse endure a physical burden when working shifts irrespective of their length. Nursing staff working short [ 37 , 43 ] and long shifts [ 27 , 38 , 40 – 42 , 44 , 47 – 49 ] reported experiencing fatigue when working shifts. Nurses reported having to pace themselves to complete their shifts, reflecting the necessity for increased physical, mental and emotional stamina when working long shifts [ 44 , 46 ].…”

“…Nursing staff working short [ 37 , 43 ] and long shifts [ 27 , 38 , 40 – 42 , 44 , 47 – 49 ] reported experiencing fatigue when working shifts. Nurses reported having to pace themselves to complete their shifts, reflecting the necessity for increased physical, mental and emotional stamina when working long shifts [ 44 , 46 ]. Exhaustion during and after working long shifts was also a common feature reported by nurses [ 26 , 33 , 44 ].…”

“…Nurses reported having to pace themselves to complete their shifts, reflecting the necessity for increased physical, mental and emotional stamina when working long shifts [ 44 , 46 ]. Exhaustion during and after working long shifts was also a common feature reported by nurses [ 26 , 33 , 44 ]. They described that working long shifts led to burnout, reduction in physical and mental health [ 49 ].…”