Shift Work Effects on Sleep and Performance

Paul Knoepflmacher, MD

Clinical Instructor of Medicine
Mount Sinai School of Medicine
New York, New York

Extrinsic circadian rhythm disorders occur when an individual alters the timing of sleep relative to their internal biological rhythm (circadian clock). A common extrinsic circadian rhythm sleep disorder, shift work sleep disorder (SWSD) occurs when the conventional sleep schedule is adjusted to accommodate a work schedule, which can cause drowsiness and associated impairments. These patients may also have sleep onset difficulties at bedtime, and are at higher risk for motor vehicle and work-related accidents. Recent studies presented at the 2009 World Association of Sleep Meeting examined patients with SWSD, with particular emphasis on the effects of shift work on both patients and people with whom they interact. For example, individuals who commonly perform shift work include physicians, nurses, police officers, truck drivers, and pilots, jobs that place the general public at risk when workers are not performing optimally. The evidence from these studies reinforces the importance of appropriately diagnosing and managing affected individuals.

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